Frequently Asked Questions

Review the frequently asked questions below. If you need additional assistance, use the chat in the lower right-hand corner. We’re here to help!

How can I apply for IndyEAP assistance?

Fill out an application online here. The completed application packet includes:

Signed application
Proof of Income for past 90 days
Utility bills

I need help completing my EAP application.

If you need help completing the application, call 211. You can also schedule an appointment here starting on October 28, 2024.

I applied for EAP assistance last year. Do I need to apply again?

Yes, you need to apply for EAP assistance each year. Applications are accepted October 1, 2024 through 5 p.m. on April 14, 2025.

Eligibility and benefits are verified and determined each year. Benefit amounts in are expected to be lower than in previous years.

I am on Social Security (or SSDI/SSI). Can I apply?

Yes, absolutely. If you are applying for IndyEAP and you receive Social Security, Social Security Disability Income (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) please provide ALL pages of the award letter, not just the page that shows your amount.

Do I need to be a US citizen to apply for EAP assistance?

Yes. You need to be a United States (US) citizen, US national or a qualified non-citizen to receive IndyEAP assistance. Persons who are not citizens or qualified non-US citizens are considered to be ineligible household members. Ineligible household members living with eligible household members do not disqualify your family from receiving IndyEAP assistance.

How long will it take before I get my EAP assistance?

It can take up to 55 days to review your application and determine your eligibility. And it may take an additional 60 days for the utility company to process your benefit.

PLEASE CONTINUE TO PAY YOUR UTILITY BILL while waiting for your EAP assistance to appear on your account.

If I am awarded IndyEAP assistance how will the benefit be paid?

EAP benefits are paid directly to utility vendors. If your utilities are included in your rent, the benefit is paid directly to you and it may take up to 120 days for the payment to process.

What is the status of my EAP application?

If you applied for EAP assistance online, you are able to check your status here. Please have your username and password accessible. If you applied with a paper application or through 211, please contact us through the chat in the lower right-hand corner.

I received a disconnect notice or my heat and/or electricity is currently shut off/disconnected. What should I do?

If you are in crisis with your utility bill and have not submitted an application, please submit your application as soon as possible including any supporting documents that are needed.

If you have already submitted your application, please email indyeap@jbncenters.org to let us know that you are in crisis. Please note we must have all required documents to process your application.

Continue to pay your bill while waiting for assistance. Contact your utility company to make payment arrangements. Check here for additional resources or contact 211.

What other kinds of Utility Assistance is available?

The EAP program may not be able to cover all of your utility bill, or you may not be eligible. Additional resources can be found by calling 211 or here.

You can also reach out to your local community center to identify additional resources. Not sure what community center serves your neighborhood? Search here or here.

I have a credit balance with my utilities. Am I still eligible for IndyEAP assistance?

If you have a credit balance over $250 or more for metered utilities such as Citizens and/or AES, you may be approved for IndyEAP but will not receive a benefit, even when your balance drops below $250. If approved, you will still be eligible for moratorium protection and benefits available through the individual utility companies. If your bulk fuel credit balance exceeds $500, you will not be eligible for a benefit until the balance drops below that figure.

What is the moratorium and when is it?

In 1983, the Indiana General Assembly enacted Indiana Code 8-1-2-121 governing the termination of natural gas and electric service without the customer’s request. This law states that a utility (municipally-owned, privately-owned, or cooperatively-owned) may not, during the period from December 1 through March 15 of any year, terminate residential utility service to any customer who is eligible for and who has applied for the Energy Assistance Program (EAP).

I have additional questions about my EAP application.

If you have additional questions not answered here, please use the chat in the lower right-hand corner of the screen.