Duncan: APS bill assistance available through Sun City CAN

The Mission of the Sun City Community Assistance Network is to, “Connect people with resources to enhance their standard of living.”

In other words, Sun City CAN helps people save money on things like property taxes, income taxes, utilities, Medicare premiums, prescription drugs and other things.

Many benefits go unclaimed simply because people are unaware that the benefits exist. In an effort to shed light on some of the help that is available to low-income seniors, I will write a guest commentary each month about a different senior help program.

Below is a listing of benefits available for low-income seniors that some may not realize are available.

Electric bill

The APS Crisis Assistance program is available for low-income customers who are experiencing a documented crisis.

Each eligible household can receive up to an $800 credit on the current and past due amount of their APS electric bill. A household can receive help only once in a 12-month period. This is not just for seniors or Sun City residents; it is available to everyone.

To qualify for assistance with your electric utility bill, you must meet the following requirements:

• Have a monthly income from all sources that is less than $2,147 for a single person or $2,903 for a two-person household (200% of the Federal Poverty Level guidelines).
• Must be a current APS customer (not disconnected). If you are disconnected, Sun City CAN has funds to help with the deposit needed to get reconnected.
• Have an acceptable crisis reason that is documented (loss of income, excessive medical expenses, unexpected repairs, etc).

To apply or for additional information, call Sun City Community Assistance Network at 623-933-7530. The CAN office is located at 10195 W. Coggins Drive, Sun City. You do not have to live in Sun City to get this help from Sun City CAN. 

Editor’s Note: Hugh Duncan is Sun City Community Assistance Network board president.