Chelan PUD launches expanded utility bill assistance program

WENATCHEE — Chelan PUD's expanded customer bill assistance program officially launched June 1, opening the door for more qualifying households to receive help with their monthly utility bills.

The launch marks the next step in a program overhaul approved by commissioners earlier this year, when the utility broadened eligibility beyond low-income seniors and customers with disabilities to include all income-qualified households.

Under the revised structure, eligible customers can receive a 25% discount on basic and usage charges for residential electric, water and wastewater services.

During a June 1 commission meeting, Customer Program Analyst Cathy Melton announced that the program is now live and already receiving applications through Chelan PUD's online portal.

"We actually have the program up and running," Melton told commissioners. "We've actually had some people over the weekend go in, use the portal, and they self-attested to their income eligibility."

Customers can apply online through Chelan PUD's website, where applicants are guided through a series of questions to determine eligibility. Depending on their circumstances, some applicants may be approved immediately, while others may be asked to provide additional documentation.

Melton said customers currently enrolled in the utility's previous assistance program will automatically transition into the new structure and will not experience a lapse in their monthly discount.

"We wanted to reassure them that they don't have to go back and reapply to anything at this point," she said.

The expanded program was approved by commissioners in February after months of development and planning. At the time, utility leaders said the changes were intended to make assistance available to a broader range of customer-owners while simplifying access to the program.

The effort also unfolded as state lawmakers debated proposals that would require utilities across Washington to establish low-income discount programs. Chelan PUD officials argued that local utilities are often best positioned to design assistance programs that reflect the needs of their own communities, and the district's expanded program was already well underway before any statewide proposal advanced.

Chelan PUD has partnered with Community Action Council to provide in-person assistance for customers who do not have internet access or are uncomfortable navigating the online application process. Community Action staff can help residents complete applications and connect them with other assistance programs for which they may qualify.

Commissioners praised the program's accessibility, including bilingual materials and support for customers who need face-to-face assistance.

As enrollment begins, Melton also urged customers to be cautious of scams and to verify any communications that appear to be related to the program.

"We never want our customers to email private information, financial documents, things like that," she said. "That's just asking for trouble and for those bad actors to get their hands on that information."

Chelan PUD plans additional outreach through social media, customer communications and community partners to encourage eligible households to apply.

Information about the program and eligibility requirements is available through Chelan PUD at https://chelanpud.org/discounts.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media