Help with heating

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is available for customers whose income is less than $19,349 -- 50 percent of the state median income of $38,697 for a family of four. Households with seniors, disabled people and children are encouraged to apply. Funding is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. How to apply: Contact your local LIHEAP provider. For a list of providers, go to www.startribune.com/a3770 or call 651-296-5175 or 1-800-657-3710. What to do if you're disconnected: Contact your utility company to discuss a payment plan. • CenterPoint: 612-321-4680 or 1-800-729-6164 • Xcel Energy: 1-800-895-4999 Note: You may be eligible for protection from being disconnected through the Minnesota Cold Weather Rule. The state law protects qualified customers from shutoff from Oct. 15 through April 15, but you must apply for protection. Complaints: The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission's consumer affairs department advises customers who have had service shut off or are at risk of a shutoff to contact their utility company and try to work out a payment plan. Customers unsatisfied with the company's response may call the consumer affairs department at 651-296-0406 or 1-800-657-3782.