NEW ORLEANS — $150 is a decent chunk of change.
But when skyrocketing Entergy bills are piling up every month, it's just a drop in the bucket.
"I have a $461 bill that I haven't paid yet and a $370-something bill, so all together that's like $800-something and that $150 is going to be like putting 25-cent on that bill," Entergy customer Denise Bickham said.
Entergy announced a partnership with the United Way to give $1.1 million to New Orleans residents in the form of $150 bill subsidies. Entergy New Orleans customers qualify if they have an income up to 250% above the federal poverty line.
On Thursday, Aug. 11, Entergy released what you'll need to get apply for the credit.
You will need to have a household income of up to 250% of the federal poverty level, which equates to:
- $33,975 for a household of 1
- $45,775 for a household of 2
- $57,575 for a household of 3
- $69,375 for a household of 4
- $81,175 for a household of 5
- $92,975 for a household of 6
- $104,775 for a household of 7
- $116,575 for a household of 8
Qualifying customers must live in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, Plaquemines, Tangipahoa, St. Tammany and Washington parishes.
Entergy said the application process will open on Aug. 17. To apply, visit United Way SELA's website or call the United Way at 211.
Qualifying customers will need to have a photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport and one of the following for each income earner in the house that is 18-or-older:
- First page of 2021 tax return(s)
- 2021 W2(s)
- Last paystub(s)
- Social Security Administration 1099 or 1042S form(s)
There's concern that because the program has been promoted mostly online, elderly residents will miss their chance to apply.
"It's going to be gobbled up very quickly," City Council VP JP Morrell said. "I will tell you that the next call we get will be from elderly people saying they didn't hear about the program and now it's too late."
But even if there are problems with the program, Entergy customers will take whatever help they can get this summer.
"I appreciate the $150," Bickham said. "If I'm lucky enough to get it."
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