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Navigating electric bill assistance in Crockett County requires understanding the local energy market. Unlike many urban areas, this region operates under a hybrid system. Your options for financial aid depend entirely on who sends your monthly bill.
Residents in the county seat of Ozona often participate in the deregulated market managed by ERCOT. In these zones, you choose a Retail Electric Provider (REP) like Gexa or Reliant to handle your billing. However, the physical power lines are owned by Transmission and Distribution Service Providers (TDSPs) such as AEP Texas North or Oncor.
Conversely, the vast rural areas of the county are served by the Southwest Texas Electric Cooperative (SWTEC). This is a member-owned organization that does not offer a choice of providers. Knowing whether you are a Cooperative member or a Retail Electric customer is the first step to finding the right help.
The primary source of government funding for electricity bills is the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). In Crockett County, this program is administered by the Concho Valley Community Action Agency (CVCAA) based in San Angelo. This agency manages federal funds designed to help low-income households maintain energy stability.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for CEAP, your household income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The program prioritizes vulnerable groups to ensure those most at risk receive help first. Priority status is given to households that include:
How to Apply Successfully
The CVCAA has strict operational rules to manage high demand. Failing to follow these protocols will result in the rejection of your application.
Required Documentation
You must gather all necessary paperwork before the application window opens. A complete packet must include:
Residents served by the Southwest Texas Electric Cooperative (SWTEC) have access to a unique safety net. Because the cooperative is member-owned, it operates internal programs to support its community. These resources are distinct from state or federal welfare.
"Members Paying It Forward"
This benevolent fund is designed specifically to help vulnerable members avoid disconnection. It is funded by other members who voluntarily round up their bills to the nearest dollar.
If you live in a deregulated zone (served by a Retail Electric Provider), you have specific rights under Texas law. The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) enforces rules to protect customers from dangerous disconnections.
Critical Care Registry
If someone in your home relies on an electric medical device to sustain life, you must apply for the Critical Care Registry. This status prevents immediate disconnection and provides a grace period to sort out payments.
Deferred Payment Plans
Under state regulations, your provider may be required to offer a Deferred Payment Plan (DPP). This allows you to pay off a past-due balance in installments.
Deposit Waivers
Low-income residents and seniors can often waive the upfront security deposit for new service.
When federal processing times are too long, local organizations in Ozona can provide immediate, short-term relief. These groups often act as the first line of defense against energy insecurity.
Crockett County Helping Hands
Located within the Senior Center, this organization focuses on the elderly but serves as a general resource hub.
Faith-Based Community Funds
Local churches frequently maintain benevolent funds to assist residents with emergency bills.
County Indigent Health Care Program
This program assists the extremely poor with medical needs but can also serve as proof of indigency for other utilities.
If you are facing a disconnection notice, follow this strategic sequence to secure help.
2. Secure Short-Term Aid Contact local "bridge" organizations while waiting for state funds.
3. Apply for Long-Term Solutions Once the immediate crisis is paused, apply for CEAP through the Concho Valley Community Action Agency.
By understanding the difference between the cooperative and retail markets, and utilizing both local charity and federal grants, Crockett County residents can effectively manage energy costs and maintain essential services.
The primary administrator for Crockett County Texas electric bill assistance programs is the Concho Valley Community Action Agency (CVCAA). They manage the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP), which utilizes federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds to help eligible residents in Ozona and surrounding areas pay their utility bills.
To qualify for assistance, your household income generally must not exceed 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For the 2025 program year, this equates to approximately $23,475 for a single-person household and $48,225 for a family of four. Priority is often given to households with the lowest income relative to energy costs.
Residents of Ozona and Crockett County can apply directly through the CVCAA website or by requesting a paper application. Since the main office is in San Angelo, most Crockett County applicants utilize the mail-in option or the online portal. Call (325) 653-2411 or dial 2-1-1 for local referral information.
You must provide proof of identity (driver’s license or ID) and Social Security cards for all household members. Additionally, you need proof of income for the past 30 days (pay stubs, award letters) for all adults, and a copy of your most recent electric bill showing your name and service address.
Yes, the Crisis Assistance component of the Crockett County Texas electric bill assistance program is designed specifically for households facing immediate disconnection or extreme weather conditions. If you have received a disconnect notice, mark your application as a "Crisis" or "Priority" status to potentially expedite processing, though funding availability varies.
Yes, the Concho Valley Community Action Agency prioritizes "vulnerable" households. This includes individuals aged 60 and older, persons with disabilities, and families with children under the age of six. These groups often receive assistance first during periods of high demand or limited funding.
Processing times for the Crockett County Texas electric bill assistance program can vary significantly based on demand. Standard applications may take 60 to 90 days to review. If you are in a crisis situation, the agency attempts to process the file faster, but you should continue paying what you can while waiting.
Yes, renters are fully eligible for the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) as long as they are responsible for paying the electric bill directly to the provider. If your utilities are included in your rent, you generally cannot receive direct electric assistance, though other housing relief may be available.
Yes, CEAP funds can be applied to bills from cooperatives like the Southwest Texas Electric Cooperative (SWTEC). Additionally, members should contact SWTEC directly to ask about internal payment plans or "Operation Round Up" style charitable programs that may offer small grants for members in financial distress.
If you are ineligible for CVCAA programs, contact Texas Utility Help for statewide relief options. You can also reach out to the Crockett County Care Center or local churches in Ozona for one-time emergency aid. Dialing 2-1-1 Texas remains the best way to find alternative local non-profits or "pledge" agencies.
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