Crosby County Texas Electric Bill Assistance Program

Residents of Crosby County struggling with high electric bills have access to specific, government-funded financial safety nets. The primary solution is the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP), which helps low-income households cover electricity, gas, and propane expenses.

Because Crosby County operates under a regulated utility environment—unlike the deregulated markets in Dallas or Houston—you cannot simply switch providers to lower your rate. Instead, you must rely on these structured assistance programs and specific provider policies to maintain financial stability.

Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)

The CEAP is a grant, not a loan. It is funded federally and administered locally by the South Plains Community Action Association (SPCAA). This program is designed to:

• Prevent Disconnection: Provide payments for ongoing energy bills to stop a crisis before it starts.
• Restore Service: Offer emergency relief for households that have already received a disconnect notice.
• Repair Equipment: In some cases, assist with the repair or replacement of inefficient heating and cooling units for vulnerable households.

Payments are made directly to your utility provider (such as Xcel Energy, South Plains Electric Cooperative, or Lighthouse Electric) on your behalf.

Income Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, your household income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Income Limits. Eligibility is calculated based on your gross income from the 30 days immediately preceding your application date.

Current Income Limits (2025):

• 1 Person: Up to $23,475
• 2 Persons: Up to $31,725
• 3 Persons: Up to $39,975
• 4 Persons: Up to $48,225

Note: Non-cash benefits like SNAP (food stamps) are generally not included in this income calculation, though you must still disclose them.

Required Documentation

The SPCAA has strict documentation rules. Missing a single document will delay your application and could result in service disconnection. Ensure you have the following ready before your appointment:

1. Proof of Citizenship: Birth certificates, U.S. passports, or permanent resident cards for household members.
2. Identification: Valid government-issued photo ID for all adults (18+) in the home.
3. Social Security Cards: Required for every household member, regardless of age.
4. Income Verification: Pay stubs, award letters (Social Security, SSI, VA), or unemployment statements for the last 30 days.
5. Utility Bills: Your most recent electric, gas, or propane bill showing the account number and service address. (Include the disconnect notice if applicable).

Where to Apply in Crosby County

You must apply through the designated local center. Residents of Crosbyton, Ralls, and Lorenzo cannot apply at offices in Lubbock.

SPCAA Crosby County Center

• Address: 224 South Berkshire St., Crosbyton, TX 79322
• Phone: (806) 691-2201
• Fax: (806) 675-2291

Call immediately if you receive a disconnect notice. Crisis applications are prioritized, but the verification process still takes time.

Navigating Your Specific Provider

Your location in Crosby County determines your electric provider, and each has different policies for assistance.

1. Xcel Energy (Southwestern Public Service)

• Service Area: Primarily serves the cities of Crosbyton, Ralls, and Lorenzo.
• Medical Certificates: If a household member is seriously ill, a doctor can sign a medical certificate to suspend disconnection for 63 days. This buys you critical time to get CEAP funding approved.
• Arrangements: Xcel is often willing to set up installment plans if you contact them before your service is cut.

2. South Plains Electric Cooperative (SPEC)

• Service Area: Serves the rural areas outside the city limits.
• Pre Pay Accounts: If you use SPEC's "Co-op Power Pre Pay," your power cuts off automatically when your balance hits $0.00. You must apply for assistance well before this happens, as CEAP pledges take time to process.
• Operation Round Up: SPEC has a member-funded grant program that sometimes assists families in dire crises (separate from CEAP).

3. Lighthouse Electric Cooperative

• Service Area: Serves northern and eastern parts of the county.
• Pledges: Lighthouse accepts third-party pledges. Once you apply for CEAP, call Lighthouse Customer Service at (806) 983-2814 immediately to alert them that a pledge is pending. This communication can save your connection.

Critical Medical Protections

If someone in your home relies on electric-powered life-sustaining equipment, you have legal rights under Texas law.

• Critical Care Status: Prevents disconnection for non-payment for a specific period (usually requires renewal every two years).
• Chronic Condition Status: For serious illnesses requiring heating/cooling to prevent deterioration (requires more frequent renewal).
• Action Step: Download the official Public Utility Commission form, have your doctor sign it, and submit it directly to your electric provider (not the assistance agency).

Supplemental Community Resources

If CEAP funds are depleted or you are waiting for approval, use these local resources to bridge the gap.

Food Pantries (Save Grocery Money for Bills):

• Lorenzo: First Baptist Church (211 Tyler Ave) – 1st Monday at 10:00 AM.
• Ralls: First United Methodist Church (517 Watts Ave) – 2nd Thursday at 10:00 AM.
• Crosbyton: First United Methodist Church (416 W Main St) – 2nd Thursday at 11:30 AM.

Benevolence Funds:

• First Baptist Church Ralls: May have a benevolence fund for local residents. Call (806) 253-2714 for availability.
• St. Vincent de Paul: Often operates through Catholic networks in the region to provide emergency financial aid.

Crime Victims' Compensation:

• If your financial hardship is a result of family violence or violent crime, this state fund can pay for utility deposits and relocation costs. Contact the Crosby County District Attorney's Victim Assistance Coordinator for help accessing these funds.

Frequently Asked Questions