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Locating a Cameron County Texas electric bill assistance program is a critical step for residents facing financial hardship. Support is available through various state and local initiatives, including the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) and specific funds from local utility providers. This information clarifies where to apply for help, what documents you need, and how to get immediate assistance for your electricity costs in Brownsville, Harlingen, San Benito, and across the county.
What is CEAP?
The main support structure for Texas residents is the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). This program is designed with two primary goals: first, to assist low-income households in meeting their immediate energy needs by providing financial assistance, and second, to encourage consumers to control energy costs over the long term through energy education.
Understanding the CEAP and LIHEAP Connection
It is helpful to understand how state and federal programs work together. CEAP is the official program in Texas that integrates and distributes all funds from the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
This integration is intentional. The state combines these funds into a single program, CEAP, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the services provided to clients. This structure also serves to eliminate the duplication of services, which could otherwise occur if multiple, separate LIHEAP-funded programs were operating at the same time. For you, this means that applying for CEAP is the correct way to apply for LIHEAP-based assistance in Texas.
The program is administered at the state level by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). However, TDHCA does not provide funds or accept applications from individuals directly. Instead, it operates through a network of local "subrecipient" organizations that manage the program in all 254 Texas counties.
Who is Eligible for CEAP?
General eligibility for CEAP is determined by household income. To qualify, a household's income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines.
While all households meeting the income guidelines can apply, the program gives priority assistance to the most vulnerable populations. This ensures that support is directed first to households with elderly individuals, disabled individuals, and families with young children aged five or under.
The program's policy is based on providing both immediate and long-term support. It offers immediate relief to help families avoid a utility crisis. At the same time, it equips participants with the knowledge to manage their energy expenses more efficiently in the future, with a goal of helping them regain self-sufficiency.
For residents of Cameron County, the process of applying for CEAP is centralized through one primary organization.
Your Local Administrator: Community Action Corporation of South Texas (CACOST)
Who Administers CEAP in Cameron County?
The designated subrecipient organization that administers the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) for all of Cameron County is the Community Action Corporation of South Texas (CACOST).
CACOST serves as the central hub for most utility assistance in the area. It not only manages the statewide CEAP but also administers the local SHARE Program for Brownsville BPUB customers and is the official referral agency for Magic Valley Electric Cooperative members. This means that for most residents of Cameron County, the path to assistance begins with this organization.
How to Contact CACOST
To begin the application process, your first step should be to contact the main call center.
CACOST maintains offices in Cameron County where you can get information and submit applications.
CEAP Income Limits for Cameron County Households
Eligibility for CEAP is calculated at 150% of the Federal Poverty Income Limits. Based on the program year guidelines, the maximum gross income levels for households are as follows:
Documents Required to Apply at CACOST
To apply for CEAP, you must have a complete application. It is very important to note that incomplete applications will not be reviewed or processed. Gathering all your documents ahead of time is essential.
You will be required to provide the following items:
In addition to the statewide CEAP, many local utility providers in Cameron County offer their own specific assistance programs. Your options will depend on which company provides your electricity.
Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) Customers
Your Assistance Options
If you are a BPUB customer, you have two distinct paths for assistance: the SHARE Program and standard Payment Arrangements.
The BPUB SHARE Program
The SHARE Program provides direct bill payment assistance to residential customers of BPUB who meet the qualifications.
A critical difference exists between the SHARE Program and the statewide CEAP program. While CEAP requires proof of citizenship for all household members , Proof of Citizenship is NOT a requirement to apply for the SHARE Program. This makes the SHARE program an essential resource for mixed-status or non-citizen households in Brownsville who would otherwise be ineligible for CEAP.
The program does have specific limitations:
How to Apply for the SHARE Program
The SHARE Program is not administered by BPUB directly, but by qualified third-party agencies. To apply, you must schedule an appointment by calling one of the two partner agencies:
When you apply, you will need the following documents, which are different from the CEAP requirements:
BPUB Payment Arrangements
Separate from financial aid, BPUB also offers simple payment arrangements for customers who need to pay off a past-due bill. This is typically in the form of an extension of your due date.
You can apply for a payment arrangement without speaking to an agent by using BPUB's automated phone system or through the MyAccount portal online. For questions about this option, you can contact BPUB Customer Service at 956-983-6121.
Magic Valley Electric Cooperative (MVEC) Members
Your Assistance Options
Magic Valley Electric Cooperative (MVEC) provides reliable electricity to many parts of the Rio Grande Valley. MVEC offers two main ways for members to get help: internal payment plans and external assistance referrals.
MVEC Payment Arrangements
If you know that you cannot pay your electric bill by the due date, MVEC encourages you to contact one of their customer service representatives. They will discuss a payment arrangement with you, though certain conditions may apply.
Financial Assistance Referrals for MVEC Customers
For emergency financial help (such as a grant), MVEC directs its members to contact The State Department of Housing and Community Affairs (which runs CEAP) or specific local assistance providers.
The local providers MVEC lists for Cameron County residents are:
AEP Texas Customers
AEP Texas functions as a Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) in the area. This means they maintain the poles and wires that deliver your power, but you receive your bill from a separate Retail Electric Provider (REP).
While AEP does not provide direct bill payment assistance, it does offer valuable programs designed to help low-income residents save energy and reduce their costs. These programs include:
You can learn more about these energy-saving programs at the AEP Texas website.
Support from Retail Electric Providers (REPs)
Provider-Specific Funds
If you live in a deregulated part of Cameron County, you may have a plan with a provider like Reliant, TXU, Gexa, or Direct Energy. Many of these REPs have their own customer assistance funds.
Beyond state-run and utility-specific programs, a crucial safety net of non-profit and community organizations provides emergency assistance in Cameron County. These agencies are an excellent resource if you do not qualify for CEAP or if you need help beyond what other programs offer.
Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley (CCRGV)
Dual Role in Assistance
Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley (CCRGV) plays two important roles in local utility assistance. First, as mentioned earlier, it is one of the two agencies that administers the BPUB SHARE Program.
The Emergency Assistance Program
Second, CCRGV operates its own Emergency Assistance Program that is separate from the SHARE fund. This program offers "Short-Term Utility Assistance" for electricity, water, and gas to individuals and families in financial crisis, regardless of who their utility provider is.
Contact Information
You can contact the CCRGV office in Cameron County for information on applying for their general emergency assistance:
It is important to note that some of their other programs, such as Homelessness Prevention, have very specific eligibility criteria, including requirements to be a legal resident and have an income 30% below the Area Median Income.
The Salvation Army (Serving Brownsville and Harlingen)
Local Emergency Assistance
The Salvation Army has a long-standing presence in Cameron County, offering emergency assistance programs to help families pay their bills and keep their power on.
How to Apply for Salvation Army Assistance
There are two primary ways to apply for help from The Salvation Army:
Loaves & Fishes (Upper Cameron County)
The Family Emergency Assistance Program
Loaves & Fishes of the Rio Grande Valley offers a "Family Emergency Assistance" program, which functions as a homeless prevention program by helping families overcome short-term financial lapses. This program provides assistance with rent or utilities for up to three months for eligible applicants.
Eligibility and Service Area
A key eligibility factor for this program is geography. It is specifically for low to moderate-income renters in "Upper Cameron or Willacy County". This means the program serves residents of Harlingen, San Benito, and other communities in the northern part of the county, rather than Brownsville.
How to Apply
To apply, you must complete a brief interview and provide documentation. For more information, you should call 956-423-1014.
South Texas Adult Resource Center (START)
San Benito Assistance
The South Texas Adult Resource Center (START) is a community nonprofit agency based in San Benito that focuses on social services for local families. START is a key partner agency for utility assistance in the San Benito area and is an official referral organization for members of the Magic Valley Electric Cooperative.
Beyond the county-wide agencies, some residents may qualify for specialized funds available only to certain groups, such as veterans or residents of a specific city. These programs often have dedicated funding and may be a more direct path to assistance if you qualify.
Cameron County Veterans Service Office Emergency Assistance
Who They Help
The Cameron County Veterans Service Office provides emergency financial assistance to veterans, their dependents, and their survivors.
Programs and Eligibility
This assistance is available for utilities and rent. The "Operation Lighthouse" program is a specific fund that can provide utility assistance of up to $300 for a veteran or their surviving spouse.
To be eligible, you must:
How to Apply for Veterans Assistance
To apply, you should make an appointment by contacting one of the two Cameron County Veterans Service Offices:
City of San Benito Hardship Assistance Program
Who is Eligible
Residents who live within the city limits of San Benito may be eligible for a dedicated municipal assistance program.
Program Funding
The CDBG-CV Hardship Assistance Program was funded to provide financial aid to San Benito residents who experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and this assistance may still be available.
Program Details
This program provides:
Payments are made directly to the utility provider, landlord, or mortgage company on behalf of the eligible resident.
How to Apply
Funding for this program is limited, and applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. It is important to call as soon as possible to find out if you qualify and if funds are still available.
To apply, interested San Benito residents must call 956-541-4955 during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.).
Stay Calm and Act Quickly
Receiving a disconnection notice is stressful, but you have rights and specific actions you can take immediately. The situation must be handled with urgency.
Do Not Ignore It: Your Immediate First Step
The worst thing you can do if you receive a disconnection notice is ignore it. Your immediate first step is to call your electricity provider.
Most retail energy providers will work with you to set up a payment arrangement, especially if you are not habitually late. When you call, you must be direct and ask for help with your electricity bill.
Know Your Rights: The Disconnection Process
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) has rules that protect consumers. Your provider cannot disconnect your power without notice or outside of these rules.
Ask for a Deferred Payment Plan
When you call your provider, you should specifically request a "deferred payment plan". This is a formal agreement that allows you to pay your outstanding balance in installments rather than all at once.
When you call and indicate an inability to pay, your REP is required to inform you of all available payment options and assistance programs they offer.
Special Protections That Can Legally Stop Disconnection
There are specific situations under PUCT rules where your provider may not disconnect your service for non-payment. You must inform your provider if you fall into one of these categories.
This makes it critical to apply for assistance at an agency like CACOST immediately, and then ensure that agency notifies your electricity provider that your application is in process and payment is forthcoming.
Filing a Complaint
If you believe your electricity provider is not following these rules—for example, if they refuse a valid medical exemption or refuse to discuss a payment plan—you should first attempt to resolve the issue with the provider. If that fails, you have the right to file a complaint with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT).
Two final resources can help you find assistance, and one important clarification can save you time.
Using 2-1-1 Texas
Dialing 2-1-1 from your phone or visiting 211texas.org connects you to a free, confidential information and referral service. They can provide information about services and agencies in your area, including utility assistance. This is the primary referral tool used by REP-funded programs like Reliant CARE and TXU Energy Aid.
TDHCA "Help for Texans" Portal
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) maintains the official state portal to find local providers.
On the "Help for Texans" website, you can select "Utility Bill Payment Help," enter "Cameron County," and the tool will provide you with the contact information for local subrecipients like CACOST.
Remember, TDHCA assistance funds go to these local organizations; the state does not accept applications from individuals directly.
Important Note: The LITE-UP Texas Program is Discontinued
An Outdated Program
You may find outdated information referencing the "LITE-UP Texas" program. Please be aware that the LITE-UP Texas program is defunct and no longer exists.
This program, which once provided electricity discounts, ran out of funding and its website no longer exists. Searching for this program will lead to a dead end. The current, active program for statewide utility assistance is the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP).
Your First Steps
Help is available, but taking the first step is essential. Your path to assistance depends on your location and situation.
Additional Resources
For more information and to find the provider nearest you, you can visit the state's official referral page at https://www.tdhca.texas.gov/help-for-texans or the website of the local administrator, CACOST, at https://cacost.org/.
The main program is the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). In Cameron County, this federally funded initiative is administered by the Community Action Corporation of South Texas (CACOST). It assists low-income households with paying their electric, natural gas, and propane bills, prioritizing elderly, disabled, and families with young children.
You can apply through CACOST by visiting their local offices or contacting them directly.
Brownsville Office: 519 E. Madison St., Brownsville, TX 78520. Phone: (956) 435-0379.
Harlingen Office: 1822 W. Jefferson Ave., Harlingen, TX 78550. Phone: (956) 423-1100.
Email: applications@cacost.org.
Tip: Call first to check if an appointment is required due to high demand.
To qualify for the Cameron County Texas electric bill assistance program, your household income typically must not exceed 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For 2025, this roughly equates to a monthly income limit of approximately $1,883 for a single person or $3,873 for a family of four. Note: These figures are estimates; always verify with CACOST.
You must submit a completed application along with:
Proof of citizenship or legal residency (e.g., birth certificate, U.S. passport, or permanent resident card) for all household members.
Proof of income for the last 30 consecutive days for all adults (pay stubs, Social Security award letters, etc.).
Current electric bill (front and back) showing your name and service address.
Photo ID for the primary applicant.
Yes. If you are facing immediate disconnection, state this clearly when contacting CACOST. Additionally, local non-profits like Loaves & Fishes RGV in Harlingen (Phone: 956-423-1014) and Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley (Phone: 956-541-0220) often provide emergency utility assistance or "prevention" funds to stop service interruptions.
No, the Lite-Up Texas program was discontinued in 2016 after its funding was depleted. It has been effectively replaced by the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Residents who previously relied on Lite-Up Texas should now apply for CEAP through Community Action Corporation of South Texas.
Yes. BPUB customers can access the SHARE program, which provides bill payment assistance to qualifying residential customers. This program is also administered through local agencies like CACOST. You must meet specific income guidelines and typically cannot be receiving other utility assistance for the same month.
Processing times vary based on funding availability and application volume. It typically takes 4 to 8 weeks for a standard application to be processed. However, "Crisis" applications (for those with disconnect notices) are prioritized. You should continue paying what you can on your bill while waiting to avoid falling further behind.
Absolutely. The Cameron County Texas electric bill assistance program covers the entire county, including San Benito, La Feria, Los Fresnos, and Port Isabel. Residents in these areas should contact the nearest CACOST office (usually Harlingen or Brownsville) or check if their city hall has temporary local hardship grants.
If denied, ask the case manager for the specific reason (e.g., missing documents or income slightly over limit). You have the right to appeal the decision. If you are ineligible for government aid, contact 2-1-1 Texas (dial 2-1-1) to find faith-based organizations or local charities like The Salvation Army that may have more flexible criteria for emergency energy aid.
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