PSEG Cuts Unpaid Federal Workers Some Slack During Gov't Shutdown

For many of the estimated 5,000 federal workers in New Jersey going without paychecks during the government shutdown, the phrase “keeping the lights on” has a poignant, new meaning. But luckily for some, the state’s largest utility provider, PSE&G, is willing to cut them some slack when it comes to paying their bills.

On Thursday, Jan. 17, PSE&G spokespeople said that the utility provider is willing to extend a 60-day grace period to customers who are forced to pinch pennies because of the ongoing government shutdown.

“The federal government shutdown is a reminder of circumstances in which our customers can face financial hardships,” said Greg Dunlap, PSE&G vice president of customer operations.

Dunlap said that during the 60-day grace period, customer accounts will be locked and protected from shut off.

“Our customer service representatives also are prepared to discuss procedures for establishing payment schedules, should such arrangements be needed,” Dunlap stated.

The PSE&G Collections Department line is 1-800-357-2262.

PSE&G also reminded customers experiencing financial hardship that there are several programs that offer support for paying utilities, including the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) run by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.

For more information or to download a LIHEAP application or find out where to apply, visit our website or call 1-800-510-3102 or 211. Applications are also available at PSE&G’s 16 walk-in Customer Service Centers. Applications and copies of all requested documents must be submitted by mail or in person to the designated LIHEAP in-take agency by August 31, 2019.

The shutdown was born from a bitter Democrat/Republican budget battle that escalated over the holiday season and is now entering its fourth week. President Trump is sticking with his demand for money to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, and Democrats, who took control of the U.S. House of Representatives on Jan. 3, are refusing to give him what he wants.

• See related article: 5 Ways Government Shutdown Could Hurt New Jersey
• See related article: New Jersey Workers Pine For Paychecks Amid Government Shutdown

The shutdown isn't just affecting government workers and their families, many of whom had to pinch pennies over the holiday season due to the lack of a paycheck. It's also throwing a monkey wrench into IRS refunds, SNAP and WIC benefits, school/daycare food programs and immigration courts.

• See related article: NJ Congresswoman-Elect Refuses Pay Until Government Shutdown Ends
• See related article: Montclair Businesses Stand Up For Federal Workers In Shutdown

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