Veteran says Ameren grant 'kept my family stabilized' as bill-payment aid remains available

As many Americans struggle with rising energy costs, Ameren's Military Assistance Fund still has money available to help military families with their energy bills. Veterans and active-duty service members may be eligible. 

Here's what to know

Residential customers of Ameren Illinois and Ameren Missouri may qualify for help paying eligible energy bill balances through the Military Assistance Fund, according to the Herald-Whig. Grant money goes directly toward qualifying balances, with eligible customers being able to receive support once every 12 months.

Because the application process differs between the Illinois and Missouri utilities, customers should make sure to follow the instructions for the company serving their home.

More background

According to Ameren, one grant recipient was a veteran who had spent nearly all of her high-risk pregnancy out of work and had given birth to a baby girl. The recipient said the assistance "made me cry with gratitude because it kept my family stabilized," per the Herald-Whig. 

St. Louis-based Ameren supplies electricity to 2.5 million customers and natural gas to over 900,000 customers through Ameren Illinois and Ameren Missouri. The Military Assistance Fund is one of several assistance programs the company offers.

What can be done?

Ameren Illinois customers interested in applying for the Military Assistance Fund can check eligibility requirements and start an application on the company's website. Ameren Missouri customers will need proof of military status when seeking help. They should contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1. 

Ameren's website provides information on other assistance programs alongside bill payment options and money-saving resources. Customers looking beyond the military fund may find additional relief, and some customers may qualify for multiple assistance programs, per Ameren. 

Joe Solari, Ameren's vice president of customer experience, encouraged military families to seek help before unpaid bills become a greater burden.

"When our veterans and military families are facing a financial hardship, we want them to know they are not alone," Solari said, per the Herald-Whig. "Don't wait until you fall further behind; take that first step today toward getting help."

Where can I learn more?

Other programs also offer help for veterans and households struggling to pay utility bills. These stories cover Ameren bill assistance, broader Illinois aid, Texas veterans' benefits, and programs in Virginia and New York.

• Illinois Ameren customers facing shutoffs may qualify for up to $500 in help with bills.

• Illinois utility assistance opened Oct. 1, offering bill relief and discounts alongside furnace repairs.

• Veteran households in Texas' Cameron County can get help with household bills, repairs, and upgrades.

• Virginia households have a month-long application window for heating assistance up to $600.

• New York utility customers have been seeking bill credit help at in-person events before winter.

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