In an effort to support residents struggling to manage their electric bills, Jersey Central Power and Light (JCP&L), a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE), is providing significant assistance through the Universal Service Fund (USF). With many households experiencing financial difficulties, the company's Energy Assistance Outreach Team (EAOT) is dedicated to helping eligible customers easily access this financial relief program.
What is the Universal Service Fund (USF)?
The USF is a statewide initiative aimed at helping low- to moderate-income households reduce their energy costs. This program is not only vital for managing day-to-day expenses but also assists families in ensuring their homes remain comfortable throughout the year. Eligible customers benefit from monthly credits that alleviate their financial burden, and some participants may even qualify for a one-time elimination of their account balance via the USF Fresh Start Program.
To qualify for USF assistance, applicants must meet certain criteria, including:
1. A household income at or below 60% of the state median level.
2. Spending more than 2% of their annual income on electricity (if electric heat is not used), or over 4% if they do utilize electric heating.
How to Apply for the USF
For customers interested in applying for the USF, JCP&L has streamlined the process to ensure quick and easy access to assistance. ZFor more personalized support, customers can visit
firstenergycorp.com/USF to schedule a session. These sessions offer customers dedicated help from EAOT team members who guide them through the application process, ensuring that they understand the requirements and can gather the necessary information.
Upcoming Assistance Event in Burlington County
To further facilitate access to these vital resources, JCP&L is hosting a
free utility assistance event on December 4, 2025, in Burlington County. This event will be held at the Country Lakes Firehouse (Station 3) located at 103 Firehouse Rd., Browns Mills, NJ 08015, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
At this event, customers will have the opportunity to receive one-on-one assistance with their USF applications from EAOT team members, as well as gather information about other available bill assistance programs and payment plans. There will also be community partners present, including representatives from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, and the New Jersey Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), among others, to provide further support and answer any questions attendees may have.
Broader Commitment to Community
JCP&L's commitment to helping its customers goes beyond just electric bill assistance. By raising awareness about community resources and fostering partnerships with local organizations, JCP&L is working tirelessly to remove barriers to accessing essential funds. President of FirstEnergy New Jersey, Doug Mokoid, stated, "We understand many customers are concerned about home energy costs. We want them to know that JCPL has their back! Our Energy Assistance Outreach Team can help customers get back on track and keep their homes comfortable." This sentiment reflects JCP&L’s dedication not only to providing electrical services but also to ensuring its customers can access financial support during challenging times.
To learn more about bill assistance options and see if you qualify for arrangements, customers can visit
firstenergycorp.com/billassist.
With over 1.1 million customers served across 13 counties in New Jersey, JCP&L continues to uphold its mission of building a reliable, safe, and responsible energy infrastructure, all while actively supporting those in need during difficult financial times. Stay connected with JCP&L on X @JCP_L and on Facebook at facebook.com/JCPandL or check their website at jcp-l.com for updates and news.