Low Income Senior Discount and Low Income Disabled Discount Update

Benton PUD’s Commission approved changes in the two low income discount programs to improve assistance for customers

Benton PUD has provided assistance to qualified customers since 1985.  The new program was updated to better serve customers in need by offering 15 or 20 percent monthly discount based on a customer’s annual gross household income. 

The new program has a tiered discount structure based on annual gross household income.  A 15 percent discount is available to qualified customers with an annual household income that is 100 percent to 175 percent of the federal poverty level.  A 20 percent discount is available for customers with an income that is less than 100 percent of the federal poverty level.

To qualify for the low income discounts, customers will need to have their income verified by Benton Franklin Community Action Committee every three years.  In the past, applicants had to renew annually with Benton PUD.  Customers must be 62 years of age for the Senior Low Income discount. The Disabled Low Income discount is available to customers that have a member in the household who is disabled.

Currently Benton PUD has approximately 1,100 customers who receive a discount with the expectation the participants will increase slightly.  The proposed changes to the programs could potentially impact Benton PUD by $75,000 to $100,000 but will be offset because the District will be able to take a limited credit against the public utility tax for billing discounts for low income customers.

Benton PUD customers who feel they may meet the program requirements are encouraged to apply by calling Benton Franklin Community Action Committee.

Low-Income Senior Citizen Discount application - Coming Soon

Low-Income Disabled Discount application - Coming Soon