As winter gets closer, many Michigan families are already worried about how to keep their homes warm and their lights on. The good news is that help is on the way. Thousands of Michigan residents will receive a $250 credit to help pay for their heating and electricity bills during the coldest months of the year.
This move is part of a broader effort by the state and Consumers Energy to support low-income households and prevent power outages this winter.
Who is eligible to receive the $250 energy credit
The $250 credit is designed specifically for low-income households in Michigan. It is part of the state’s energy assistance programs that aim to help families who are most at risk of losing power during the winter.
To qualify for the credit:
- You must have a household income below 100% of the federal poverty level.
- You must be a Consumers Energy customer (the state’s largest energy company).
Starting January 1, 2026, eligible residents can apply for the credit through the Michigan Department of Treasury. However, many customers will not have to take any action, as the credit will be automatically applied to their bills if they qualify.
Consumers Energy said in a statement, “Winter is approaching in Michigan, and Consumers Energy is ready to help those who need extra support to pay their heating bills this season.”
If you are unsure whether you qualify, you can simply call 2-1-1. This hotline connects you to local nonprofit organizations that can guide you through the application process or confirm your eligibility.
How to apply for Michigan’s winter energy credit
For those who need to apply manually, the process is designed to be simple and quick.
Here is what you should do:
- Visit the Michigan Department of Treasury website once the program opens in January 2026.
- Submit your household income information and Consumers Energy account details.
- Wait for confirmation that your $250 credit has been applied to your account.
If you have questions or face challenges, local nonprofits are available through the 2-1-1 helpline to walk you through every step.
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Other programs that can help with winter utility bills
The $250 credit is not the only form of help available. Michigan offers other assistance programs to make energy costs more manageable, especially for low-income families.
Here are a few you should know about:
- Consumers Affordable Resource for Energy (CARE) Program:
- A 24-month plan that lets you pay a fixed, affordable monthly rate.
- Helps you pay off past debts while keeping your current payments on track.
- Funded by the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
- Open to Consumers Energy customers with incomes at or below 60% of the state median income and no history of fraud or unresolved bankruptcy.
- A 24-month plan that lets you pay a fixed, affordable monthly rate.
- State Emergency Relief (SER) Program:
- Provides one-time emergency payments to prevent power outages.
- Covers up to $600 for electricity or gas bills.
- For households relying solely on electricity, coverage can reach $900.
- Available for families with incomes up to 150% of the federal poverty level.
- Provides one-time emergency payments to prevent power outages.
Why Michigan’s winter assistance matters
Michigan winters can be extremely harsh, and energy costs often rise when heating demand increases. These state programs are designed to make sure no one is left without warmth during the freezing months.
By combining federal, state, and company-supported programs, Michigan is working to make energy more affordable for everyone, especially families struggling to keep up with rising living costs.
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