Checked October 10, 2026
Help paying bills in Texas
Behind on your electric, gas or rent in Texas? Here are the real programs, who to call, and what to do first. All free.
Do these 3 things first
- Call your electric provider today. Ask for a deferred payment plan before your due date.
- Apply for CEAP (energy bill help) through your local agency. Find it on 211 Texas or by dialing 2-1-1.
- If someone in your home is seriously ill or disabled, ask your provider about critical care or chronic condition status.
Help with electric and gas bills
CEAP (Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program)
Texas's version of LIHEAP. It helps low-income households pay electric and gas bills. The state (TDHCA) sends the money to local agencies, so you apply with your local agency, not the state. Local agencies can run out of money, so apply early and ask about a waiting list.
Got a shutoff notice?
Texas rules say your electricity can't be cut off for non-payment during extreme weather emergencies (based on National Weather Service heat and freeze advisories), and providers must offer payment plans for bills that come due during those emergencies. If someone in your home is ill or disabled, you can apply for extra protection by documenting that a shutoff would make them sicker. Call your provider first. If that doesn't work, file a complaint with the Public Utility Commission of Texas.
If your utility won't help: Public Utility Commission of Texas, Customer Protection · 1-888-782-8477
Behind on rent
Texas does not run a statewide rent program for individuals. The state funds local agencies instead. Dial 2-1-1 or search 211 Texas for emergency rent help in your county, and check with your city or county housing office.
Food, health care and phone
SNAP (food), Medicaid and CHIP (health), TANF (cash)
Apply online for all of them in one place.
Lifeline (phone or internet discount)
A federal discount on one phone or internet plan if you get SNAP, Medicaid, SSI or meet income rules.
Lower the bills you pay every month
A 60-second check of your phone, car insurance, bank fees and credit. Free options first.
Make a plan for the next few months
Once the emergency is handled, see where your money goes and which bills to pay from each paycheck. The Budget Starter is free. The Debt Freedom Planner adds your debt-free date and a credit rebuild plan.
Dealing with it right now? The Hard Month Kit ($9) has printable call scripts, a hardship letter and a bill priority worksheet.
We sell the planner. It never changes the advice on this page. How we make money.
Watch out for scams
Real help programs never charge a fee to apply. Never pay with gift cards, wire transfers or crypto, and never give your login or PIN to anyone who calls you. Report scams at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Sources
Program details change. Confirm with the program before you rely on a date or amount.