New Jersey's Lifeline Utility Assistance Program

The New Jersey Lifeline Utility Assistance Program makes independent living more affordable by offering financial help with utility costs, giving people the extra support they need to stay safe and comfortable at home.

What is New Jersey’s Lifeline Utility Assistance Program?

The Lifeline Utility Assistance Program is run by the New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) and helps people pay their electricity and gas bills. For those who qualify, it provides money to lower utility costs so you can stay safe and comfortable at home. This support is offered through three different programs depending on your situation. These programs are:

• Lifeline Credit Program – A $225 credit applied directly to your electric and gas bills if you pay for utilities yourself.
• Tenants Lifeline Assistance Program – A $225 check sent to you if your rent includes gas and electric costs.
• Special Utility Supplement – If you receive SSI (Supplemental Security Income), you could get up to $18.75 each month added to your SSI to put toward utility bill.

Do I qualify for the Utility Assistance Program?

You may qualify for Lifeline if you:

• Receive Medical Assistance to the Aged (MAA), Medical Assistance Only (MAO), or New Jersey Care, or
• Get help through the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD) program.

You may be eligible for PAAD if:

• Live in New Jersey,
• Are 65 or older, or between 18 and 64 and getting Social Security Disability,
• And have income under $53,446 if you’re single or under $60,690 if you’re married.

Note: If you don’t already have PAAD, but fit these rules, you can apply for PAAD and Lifeline at the same time by filling out one application.

How do I apply?

To apply for the Lifeline Utility Assistance Program, you can visit New Jersey’s Department of Human Services website and complete the NJSave application online, which covers Lifeline and other state assistance programs.

If you receive SSI, the $18.75 utility supplement should be added automatically to your check, so you don’t need to apply. If you receive SSI, Medicaid (MAA or MAO), or New Jersey Care, you should also get a paper Lifeline application in the mail each August that you can fill out and return.

What if I need help?

If you need help applying for the Lifeline Utility Assistance Program or want to learn more, there are a few ways to get in touch:

• Call the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services at 1‑800‑792‑8820.
• Send a message to the Division of Aging Services using their online contact form on the DHS website.

Staff are available to assist you and answer any questions you may have.