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PSE&G Customer Service
Fact Sheet On Winter Shut-Off
Spanish Version
Q: Can residential electric and gas service be shut-off During the winter months?
A: The Board of Public Utilities (BPU) has adopted a policy to protect certain residential customers from shut-offs during the winter months from November 15 through March 15. This period may be extended if winter conditions continue. Those residential electric and gas customers who receive benefits from any of several assistance programs will not have their service shut-off as long as they make a good faith effort to pay as much as they can afford during the winter. These programs are:
  • Lifeline Credit
  • Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
  • Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Work First New Jersey General Assistance (GA)
  • Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD)
  • Customers unable to pay because of circumstances beyond their control
All recipients of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are required to transfer all LIHEAP benefits to their major heat supplier.

Customers who are eligible under the Winter Termination Program MUST contact PSE&G's toll free at 800-357-2262.

The BPU is requiring all customers who are eligible for shut-off protection to start a Winter Termination Program budget plan with PSE&G. PSE&G will calculate your monthly budget payment amount. You will be required to pay this amount, although a lesser amount can be accepted during the winter upon showing that you are unable to pay the entire budget amount. The amount of the bill may also include any balance you owe PSE&G from past-unpaid bills.

You will not be shut-off if you can show PSE&G you are making a good faith effort to pay. If you fall too far behind during the winter, chances are that you will be cut off after March 15 or later if weather conditions require an extension of the program. Customers who have the ability to make good faith payments but refuse to do so shall be referred to the Board of Public Utilities for determination. If PSE&G determines you are not making a good faith effort, and they notify you that they will shut you off, negotiate with them again. If you and PSE&G cannot agree, PSE&G shall refer the dispute to the Board of Public Utilities for a determination. You may also contact the Board of Public Utilities at 973-648-2350 or 800-624-0241.
Bill Payment Assistance

Energy Conservation
Energy Conservation Information (PSE&G)
Toll Free Number
800-854-4444

Weatherizarion Information
Office of Weatherization
Department of Community Affairs
609-292-6140 or 800-510-3102