CARE Program

• Must receive an energy related SER from DHHS in order to be considered income eligible
• Total account balance must be less than $4,000
• Must be an active, residential Consumers Energy account holder or the spouse of the account holder
• Must not have unaddressed theft or fraud on the account

The United Way of Jackson County CARE enrollment is open. To apply for self-sufficiency services:

Go online to: https://www.helpwithutilities.com

Call 517-741-0202

True North Community Services CARE enrollment is closed. To apply for self-sufficiency services:

Go online to: https://tnempower.org

Call 231-355-5880

The Salvation Army CARE enrollment is open. To apply for self-sufficiency services:

Go online to: https://salarmy.us/energy

The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) CARE enrollment is open. To apply for self-sufficiency services:

Go online to: https://thawfund.org/programs

Call 1-800-866-8429

Bureau of Community Action and Economic Opportunity CARE enrollment is open. To apply for self-sufficiency:

Go online to: https://newmibridges.michigan.gov

Call your local Community Action Agency

St. Vincent de Paul Society CARE enrollment is open. To apply for self-sufficiency services or inquire about other assistance available:

Go online to: http://helpwithmybill.com/

Call 313-393-2930 or toll free at: 1-877-788-4623

The United Way of Southeastern Michigan CARE enrollment is open. To apply or check the status of your application:

Go online to: https://unitedwaysem.org/utility-assistance/

Call 844-211-4994

Barry County United Way CARE enrollment is open. To apply for self-sufficiency services:

Go online to: https://www.bcunitedway.org/

Call 269-945-4010

Superior Watershed Partnership CARE enrollment is open. To apply for self-sufficiency services in Emmet, Cheboygan, Presque Isle, Charlevoix, Antrim, Ostego, Montmorency, Alpena, Kalkaska, Crawford, Oscoda, Alcona, Iosco, Ogemaw, and Roscommon counties:

Go online to: https://superiorwatersheds.org/energy-conservation

Call 906-273-2742

To make your enrollment process easier, please be sure to gather the following supporting documentation:

• Most recent Consumers Energy bill
• Social Security card of applicant and social security numbers for household members
• Driver's license of applicant
• Proof of all household gross income (amount before deductions) received during the 30 days prior to the application signature date

CARE+

CARE+ is available to customers who do not qualify for SER or the traditional CARE program due to being over income. CARE+ is an affordable payment plan that helps you stay on top of your energy bills. As a CARE+ member, you will receive the following benefits:

• A portion of your monthly bill will be paid by the program
• Any past due balance you might have will be gradually forgiven as a reward for on time payments

If you have recently applied for SER and did not qualify for SER, you may be eligible for CARE+. Contact 2-1-1 in order to determine the best program for you.

Shut-Off Protection Plan is available year-round.

Eligibility:

• Meet Income Guidelines (200% of poverty level)
• 10% of total account balance is due at enrollment

Winter Protection Plan is available November 1 through March 31.

Eligibility:

• Senior Citizen (65 years or older)
• Meet Income Guidelines (150% of poverty level)
• Down payment is required.