California is giving customers free money to boost their bank accounts. The state is distributing the funds via a new program that aims to help people better manage their utility bills. The California Public Utilities Commission has approved a plan to send $600 payments to more than 30,000 Californians. Those who received the cash payout said they had no idea they were getting the money and checked their statements only because of an increase in their balance. The payments are part of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which is run by the Center for Economic Progress, a public benefit organization in Chicago. Consumers can apply for the payment through an online application or by calling 1-800-803-3388
The state is sending out surprise $600 checks to residents.
Stimulus Check: Year End On A Happy Note
The California Public Utilities Commission announced Monday that it has approved a plan to send $600 payments to more than 30,000 Californians who participate in Energy Coordination programs or spend more than 20% of their household income on energy bills. The commission estimates the program will reach an estimated 2 million low-income families by 2022.
California is following in the footsteps of other states that have launched similar programs recently, including New York and Massachusetts, where some customers have received small refunds from utility companies as part of a broader effort to lower costs for struggling households.
California is sending out surprise $600 checks to residents.
The state is distributing the funds via a new program that aims to help people better manage their utility bills. The California Public Utilities Commission has approved a plan to send $600 payments to more than 30,000 Californians who are struggling to pay their monthly energy bills.
Most recipients will receive the money in the form of an electronic transfer or direct deposit on Friday morning, according to PUC spokeswoman Terrie Prosper. The payment includes both electric and gas bills for July through December 2019 as part of an ongoing pilot program called Direct Access Plus (DAP).
