MARYLAND UTILITY RATE ASSISTANCE

• Several utility companies provide credits, arrearage forgiveness and waivers of reconnection, deposit fees and service application charges to low-income households. The majority of assistance comes from one gas/electric utility. 

• All LIHEAP eligible customers are qualified to apply for the Utility Services Protection Program (USPP), a year-round monthly utility payment program.  The monthly payment is based on the household's fuel consumption for the previous year minus the LIHEAP payment and divided by 12.  Long term arrearage payment arrangements may be made. Reconnect fees are waived for customers choosing to participate in USPP for the first time.

LEVERAGING

2002: $3.5 million
2001: $4.5 million
2000: $6.2 million
1999: $8.6 million
1998: $10.4 million
1997: $9.8 million
1996: $10 million
1995: $5.2 million
1994: $5.9 million
1993: $2.8 million
1992: $2 million
1991: $4.5 million