Customer Assistance Fund
The Customer Assistance Fund (CAF)* provides eligible customers financial support managing energy bills during the winter heating and summer cooling seasons. You may be eligible if you’re facing financial hardship but don’t qualify for federal assistance programs.
Is the Customer Assistance Fund right for me?
The Customer Assistance Fund (CAF) provides financial assistance for qualified families and individuals who are facing challenges when paying their energy bills. The CAF is designed to provide assistance for people who typically don’t qualify for public assistance programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) yet still need support.
The CAF is administered in partnership with the Salvation Army. It is available to National Fuel customers in Ohio in households that fall within these income guidelines:
CAF income limits are higher than most federal assistance programs, which means we can help more customers. You may qualify even if you’ve been turned down for other programs.
How to apply
Call 937-528-5120 and press option 2 to speak with someone who can help you complete the application.
Additional ways we support our customers
The Customer Assistance Fund works alongside other National Fuel tools designed to help you manage your energy costs:
- Payment arrangements: Set up a plan that works for your budget.
- Average Monthly Billing: Spread your costs evenly throughout the year.
- Due date extensions: Request extra time when you need it.
Ready to explore more options? If you’re eligible for state or federal low-income assistance programs, we encourage you to apply for those resources first.
What's the difference between CAF and LIHEAP?
The Customer Assistance Fund (CAF) is exclusively for National Fuel customers who earn too much to qualify for federal programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) but still need help with energy cost.
Should I apply for CAF if I'm eligible for state or federal programs?
If you’re eligible for state or federal low-income assistance programs, we encourage you to apply for those resources first. The CAF is designed to help customers who need utility bill assistance but don’t qualify for those programs.
Can I apply if I've already received help this year?
No, you can only receive CAF funding once per calendar year.
What documents will I need to show my income?
When you apply, you’ll need to provide proof that your household income meets the CAF income guidelines. This typically includes recent pay stubs, tax returns or documentation of any government benefits you receive.