Moratorium on utility shutoffs ends July 1st, 2021 but a grace period through December 31, 2021 is in place.
This moratorium on utility shutoffs will expire on July 1, 2021. However, there is a grace period through December 31st, 2021 to give customers the time they need to enroll in payment assistance plans. No one should face disconnection of gas, electric, or water services before the end of the grace period.
In addition, utilities will not be charging late fees nor fees to reconnect services that have been disconnected.
Although utility service shutoffs are suspended, customers are still encouraged to set up payment plans with their utilities so they can begin paying their bills, if they are able, over a period of time.
If you are struggling to pay your utility bills, contact your utility company about assistance programs and payment plans, or click here. If you are unable to resolve an issue with your utility company, you should contact the Board of Public Utilities’ Customer Assistance team by filling out this online form, or by calling (800) 624-0241 and leaving a voicemail.
Phone and Internet Customers
Cable and telecommunications providers are required to enroll customers with an already existing account in an interest free payment plan of at least 12 equal monthly installments, including the balance already due, prior to disconnecting the customers service.
For households with school-age children who need Internet connectivity for remote-learning, Internet shutoffs will not be permitted through June 30, 2021. If a household experiences a change of circumstances where school age children will be using their home Internet service for school, the cable and telecommunications company will be required to reconnect that Internet service.
Note: You may be eligible for for utility assistance from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Click here for more information.