COLUMBUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—As the winter heating season begins, Columbia Gas of Ohio reminds customers they can receive help paying their utility bills through the 2024-25 Special Reconnect Order (SRO) and Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Columbia also offers payment plans to make home energy costs more manageable and predictable.

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) has announced that between Oct. 14, 2024, and April 18, 2025, customers can take advantage of the SRO. Customers who are facing shutoff or who have already been shut off can contact Columbia to avoid disconnection or reconnect service for just $175. Customers in need of reconnection must pay an additional reconnection fee, and customers who use the SRO must establish a payment plan for their outstanding balance.

HEAP, federally funded and administered through the Ohio Department of Development, is a one-time benefit applied directly to customers’ utility bills. Customers eligible for HEAP must have a household income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Customers can take advantage of HEAP through their local community action agency.

Columbia also offers a variety of payment plans for all customers. Payment plans make utility bills more manageable and can help customers anticipate and budget for their utility bill. For information on payment plans or bill payment assistance programs, please call Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077. Columbia’s Customer Care team can work with customers on an individual basis to help them find a program or payment plan that works for their unique situation.

Stay Safe

Turning on the heat for the first time can serve as a crucial reminder to stay safe and perform safety checks throughout the home.

  • Check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors regularly and replace batteries when needed.
  • Do not use stoves, ovens, or grills for heat – or any appliance that is not made to heat your home.
  • Keep flammables away from heaters.
  • Please clear snow and ice around vents and meters and ensure there is a clear path to your meter at all times.

Remember, if you believe you smell natural gas, stop what you are doing, leave the area immediately, and call 911 and Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077.