You know how this goes. Winter hits, bills pile up, and the Cold Weather Rule helps keep the lights and heat on when money is tight.
But now, that window is closing.
The Kansas Corporation Commission is reminding residents that the Cold Weather Rule ends Tuesday, March 31. After that, utilities can begin disconnecting service if bills are past due and no payment arrangements are in place.
If you’ve fallen behind — and many people do this time of year — now is the time to act. While the rule is still in place, you can still set up a payment plan, even if you’ve missed one before. Waiting until after March 31 could mean having to pay the full balance to get service turned back on.
There’s another deadline to keep in mind, too. March 31 is also the last day to apply for LIEAP, the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, which can help cover energy costs.
Bottom line: If you need help, don’t wait. Make the call, set up a plan, or apply for assistance now — before the protections end.