Need Help with Your Electric Bill

At Steuben Rural Electric Cooperative, we understand that unexpected circumstances can sometimes make it difficult to keep up with your electric bill. If you are experiencing financial hardship because of a recent job loss, illness, or another situation beyond your control, please contact us as soon as possible.

We're Here to Help

Our staff can review the status of your account and discuss options that may be available to you. Depending on your account status and circumstances, you may be eligible for a payment arrangement.

Contact SREC:

Bath Office: (607) 776-4161
Toll-Free: (800) 843-3414

We encourage members to contact us before their account becomes past due or service is at risk of being disconnected. Reaching out early may provide more options for resolving your account.

Energy Assistance Resources

There are also government and charitable organizations throughout our service area that may provide assistance with utility bills to eligible individuals and families.

We have compiled a list of utility assistance programs and resources available in our region. Eligibility requirements vary by organization and program, so we encourage members to contact the agencies directly to learn more about available assistance and determine whether they qualify.

Cattaraugus County Assistance Programs

Department of Social Services: (716) 373-8065

Salvation Army: (716) 372-6740

Catholic Charities: (716) 372-0101

Chautauqua County Assistance Programs

Department of Social Services: (716) 661-8200

Salvation Army: (716) 664-4108

United Way: (716) 483-1561

Community Helping Hands: (716) 487-1488

Catholic Charities of Buffalo: (716) 484-9188

Schuyler County Assistance Programs

Department of Social Services: (607) 535-8303

Catholic Charities: (607) 535-2050

Steuben County Assistance Programs

Department of Social Services (HEAP): (607) 664-2500

Department of Social Services: (607) 664-2000

Salvation Army: (607) 684-2006

Catholic Charities: (607) 776-8085

 

Payment Arrangements

Are you having trouble paying your electric bill?  If you know you cannot pay your electric bill by the due date. Steuben Rural Electric will discuss payment arrangement eligibility and requirements with you.  We always try to assist members when we can, but certain conditions do apply.  Please call (607)776-4161 or (800)843-3414 to see if you are eligible.

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) can help eligible New Yorkers heat and cool their homes.

If you are eligible, you may receive one regular HEAP benefit per program year. You may also be eligible for Emergency HEAP benefits if you are in danger of having your utility service shut off.

2026–2027 HEAP Program Dates

Regular HEAP Benefit

  • Opens: November 2, 2026
  • Closes: April 16, 2027

Emergency HEAP Benefit

  • Opens: January 4, 2027
  • Closes: April 16, 2027

All closing dates may be shortened or extended depending on demand and available funding.

Questions About HEAP?

For questions regarding the HEAP program, eligibility, or benefits, contact the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) Hotline:

OTDA Hotline: (800) 342-3009