Due to funding, this program is no longer accepting applications for utility assistance or home repairs and safety modifications.
The Utility and Home Repair Assistance Program was developed by Hamilton County Commissioners to provide eligible older adults with assistance paying their Duke Energy or Greater Cincinnati Water Works utility bills, as well as assistance with home repairs or modification so they may age in place.
Individuals may apply for utility assistance and/or home repair assistance if they have not received the same assistance in a prior year. For example, if you received utility assistance through this program in 2022 or 2023, you may not apply in 2024. You may, however, apply for home repair assistance if you have not received it in the past. Individuals who have never applied for assistance through this program may apply for both utility assistance and home repair assistance in 2024.
Utility Assistance
Eligible individuals may apply for a one-time credit for either Duke Energy or Greater Cincinnati Water Works for each household that meets the eligibility criteria, not both.
Home Repairs and Safety Modifications
Individuals may apply to receive assistance with home repairs or safety upgrades that will help them continue to live independently at home. The applicant must own and reside in the home where the work will occur. Repairs and safety modifications commonly include the following:
- Safety upgrades including grab bars, railings and ramps
- HVAC Repair (heating and cooling)
- Hot Water Heater Repair
- Stairlifts
Applicants should prioritize the most critical repairs or safety modifications that will keep them safe and independent in their own homes. Due to financial constraints, this program is not able to provide the following:
- Roof repair and/or replacement
- Cosmetic repairs and/or replacements
- Driveway or walkway repairs and/or replacements
- Concrete work or repair
- Yard work
- Exterior or interior painting
- Major plumbing repair (water main repair, septic tanks, etc.)
- Appliance repair and/or replacement
Who is eligible?
The Senior Utility and Home Repair Assistance Program is for Hamilton County residents age 60 and older who meet certain income requirements and who are not eligible for utility assistance through other available programs.
Individuals may apply for utility assistance and/or home repair assistance if they have not received the same assistance in a prior year. For example, if you received utility assistance through this program in 2022 or 2023, you may not apply in 2024. You may, however, apply for home repair assistance if you have not received it in the past. Individuals who have never applied for assistance through this program may apply for both utility assistance and home repair assistance in 2024.
| Prior Applications | 2024 Status | |
| I received utility assistance in a prior year. | You may apply for home repair assistance in 2024. | |
| I received home repair assistance in a prior year. | You may apply for utility assistance in 2024. | |
| I received both utility and home repair assistance in prior years. | You are not eligible for this program in 2024. | |
| I have never applied for assistance through this program. | You may apply for utility AND home repair assistance in 2024. |
Eligibility Criteria
- Hamilton County residents ages 60 and over
- Ineligible for other assistance programs
- Utility Assistance: Older adult or other family member in the household currently paying the utility bill
- Repairs/Modifications: Applicant must be the homeowner and reside in the home where the work will occur.
- Household income of 300% of poverty level or below, following the guidelines below:
- 1 person in household annual income of $0-$43,740
- 2 people in household annual income of $0-$59,160
- 3 people in household annual income of $0-$74,580
- 4 people in household annual income of $0-$90,000
- 5 people in household annual income of $0-$105,420
- 6 people in household annual income of $0-$120,840
- 7 people in household annual income of $0-$136,260
- 8 people in household annual income of $0-$151,680
How to apply
Program is no longer accepting applications.
Online: Online application closed.
Mail, Email or Fax: No longer accepting applications by mail, email or fax. Completed applications should be mailed to:
Council on Aging
Attn: ADRC – Utilities
4601 Malsbary Road
Blue Ash, OH 45242
Completed paper applications may also be emailed to
HCUtility@help4seniors.org or faxed to: (513) 538-0411.
Once we receive your application form, we will contact you to further assess your
eligibility for the program.
To have an application mailed to you, please call (513) 743-9000 or send an email to HCUtility@help4seniors.org.
Questions?
If you have questions, please call COA at (513) 743-9000.