💡 Power, gas, or water shutoff
full guide + updatesFirst move: call your utility and ask for a "payment arrangement." They'd rather make a plan than disconnect you. Then call 211 for bill help.
Bill help, by company
Evergy (electric): hardship credit up to $65/month — apply through the Salvation Army: 816-756-5392, option 1
Spire (gas): DollarHelp grants up to $1,000/yr — 211 connects you. Medical hold: 30 days with a doctor's note.
KC Water: payment arrangement via 311: 816-513-1313, option 1
State energy money (timing matters)
Missouri: summer cooling help (ECIP) runs June 1 – Sept 30, up to $300, can even buy a window AC. State line: 855-373-4636 · mydss.mo.gov
Kansas: LIEAP takes applications late January – March 31 ONLY. No Kansas summer program — don't waste a day looking. Use payment plans + 211 emergency funds instead.
Metro Lutheran Ministry: form open one hour only, 9:00–10:00 AM on the 15th (next business day if weekend/holiday) — set an alarm. mlmkc.org
Rights worth saying out loud
Cold Weather Rule (Nov 1 – Mar 31): no heat shutoffs below 32°F in Missouri / 35°F in Kansas. Say the words "Cold Weather Rule." Missouri PSC if they won't stop: 1-800-392-4211
Medical equipment or serious illness in the home? Say so — utilities have medical holds.