Starting January 1, 2026, thousands of households in Michigan will see an automatic $250 energy assistance credit applied to their utility accounts.
This measure is designed to provide relief to families facing rising heating costs during the colder months, ensuring that no one has to compromise on staying warm this winter.
Program Objective & Launch
Under the banner of the Energy Relief Initiative, the state of Michigan is collaborating with Consumers Energy and the Michigan Department of Treasury to ease the burden of winter energy expenses.
The program targets the December–March period when temperatures plunge and heating bills soar. The credit is offered as a one-time benefit of up to $250, automatically applied—so eligible recipients do not need to submit a separate application or file a tax return.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility is determined automatically through utility account data and government records. To qualify, households must:
- Be a Customers of Consumers Energy (gas or electric).
- Have a total household income below 100% of the Federal Poverty Line.
The state emphasises that no tax filing is required to receive the credit. For those who wish to check or update their eligibility status, the Michigan Department of Treasury’s website provides the necessary tools.
More Support: The CARE Program
Beyond the one-time credit, Consumers Energy runs the Consumers Affordable Resource for Energy (CARE) Program—a more comprehensive, lasting form of support for low-income families. Key features include:
- A fixed monthly payment plan lasting up to 24 months.
- Gradual adjustment of any existing past-due balance, provided customers stay current on payments.
To be eligible for CARE: - You must be a Consumers Energy gas or electric customer.
- Household income must be at or below 60% of the state median income.
- The utility account must be for your primary residence.
- Any prior issues such as theft, fraud or bankruptcy must be resolved.
Applications may be submitted via authorised third-party agencies. Space is limited and early application is advised. Participants may also receive free energy-efficiency upgrades to reduce future bills.
Additional Assistance Programs
Michigan also offers multiple other support options for households facing energy hardship:
- Under the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), eligible families can receive emergency energy grants and bill support.
- Through the state’s State Emergency Relief Fund (SER), eligible homes can access:
- Up to $600 in aid for typical homes.
- Up to $900 for all-electric homes.
Eligibility for SER extends to households with incomes up to 150% of the federal poverty line.
Officials’ Statement
Speaking about the new initiative, Brian Lewis, Senior Director at Consumers Energy, noted:
“We are committed to ensuring these essential funds reach our most needy customers. By helping them keep pace with energy bills, we are taking a step forward towards energy equity for all Michigan residents.”
When & How You’ll Get the Credit
- The credit will appear in eligible consumers’ utility accounts beginning January 1, 2026.
- No further application or tax forms are required.
- Consumers Energy and the Michigan Department of Treasury will perform eligibility checks automatically using internal records.
- If you don’t see the credit, contact the Department of Treasury to verify your eligibility status.
Relief and Hope for Michigan Households
As winter temperatures fall and energy bills rise, this one-time $250 credit offers relief to thousands of Michigan households. More than just a financial boost, it represents a meaningful collaboration between state government and a major utility.
It underscores a commitment to ensuring that no family is left in the cold simply because they cannot afford to pay their energy bills.
Moreover, the CARE program and other assistance options signal longer-term support, not just short-term fixes. This initiative may serve as a blueprint for other states looking to build robust energy-assistance programs that value fairness and equity.
The upcoming January 2026 energy credit in Michigan will deliver timely assistance to qualifying households, easing the burden of high heating costs.
By automatically applying a $250 credit and offering supplementary programs like CARE, this initiative illustrates how coordinated policy and utility action can make a tangible difference.
For those managing tight budgets this winter, these programs offer more than relief—they offer stability, dignity and hope.
FAQs
Do I need to apply or file taxes to get the $250 credit?
No. The credit will be applied automatically to eligible accounts—no separate application or tax return is required.
Can I enrol in the CARE program after receiving the one-time credit?
Yes. The CARE program is a separate, ongoing assistance option for low-income Consumers Energy customers, regardless of the one-time credit.
What should I do if I don’t see the $250 credit on my account after January 1, 2026?
You should contact the Michigan Department of Treasury or Consumers Energy to check your eligibility status and ensure all account details are up to date.