(MERRILLVILLE) – NIPSCO is offering energy assistance to those individuals who need it during the winter months.

NIPSCO officials says they have different programs for income-eligible customers, seniors, and any active military and veterans who are experiencing financial difficulty paying their gas utility bill.

Available programs include NIPSCO Hardship, SERV or the Supply Energy Resources to Veterans and the SILVER or Seniors in Indiana Low-Income and Vulnerable Energy Resource programs. The programs will allow customers to receive a one-time benefit of up to $400 per year if they qualify.

NIPSCO President Mike Hooper says they recognize that NIPSCO natural gas residential customers may see an estimated 24 percent decline in their winter heating bills this season in contrast to last year due to lower market prices. Hooper says while this may be a help to many, they understand that some may still have trouble paying their bills. He says they are making these programs available to provide further energy assistance to their most vulnerable customers this winter season.

To find out more about these programs, you can go on line. Click Here.

The programs are open until May 31, 2024.