With Iowa’s winter moratorium on utility service disconnections ending April 1, the Iowa Utilities Commission (IUC) urges customers struggling with bills to act swiftly. Starting April 1, utilities can legally resume shutoffs for nonpayment, prompting concerns from those behind on payments. The IUC advises customers to review their utility’s disconnection policies and contact providers immediately to arrange payment plans and avoid losing natural gas or electric service. Utilities must provide written notice at least 12 days before disconnection, detailing the reason, due date, and customer rights under IUC rules. For renters, utilities must attempt to notify landlords two days prior. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which protects qualified customers from shutoffs between Nov. 1 and April 1, remains available through April 30. Local community action agencies and 211 Iowa also offer aid. Utilities must offer reasonable payment plans, spreading costs over at least 12 months with no initial down payment for first agreements, though second plans may require one month upfront. Contact details for Iowa Community Action Agencies for assistance are included below.
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