Behind on Rent or Utilities in Lubbock? Start With These Local Resources

Behind on Rent or Utilities in Lubbock? Start With These Local Resources

One missed paycheck, an unexpected medical bill or a reduction in work hours can leave a household choosing which bill gets paid first. If you are behind on rent, electricity, gas or water in Lubbock, the most important thing to know is that help may be available, but funding can run out quickly. Start making calls before a disconnection date or court deadline whenever possible.

Start with 211 Texas

Dial 211 or call 877-541-7905 and tell the specialist that you need rent or utility payment assistance in Lubbock County. Be ready to provide your ZIP code, the type of bill, the amount owed and any shutoff or eviction deadline. You can also search the 211 Texas website by need and ZIP code.

Because local programs open, close and run out of money throughout the year, 211 is often the best starting point for finding which agencies are accepting applications that day. Ask for more than one referral in case the first program is out of funds or does not cover your utility company.

Contact the City of Lubbock Community Development Department

The City of Lubbock receives federal and state grants that support programs including energy assistance. Residents can contact Community Development at 806-775-2296 or visit 1708 Crickets Avenue to ask which programs are open, who qualifies and what documents are required.

Calling does not guarantee payment. Ask specifically whether energy assistance applications are being accepted and whether the program serves your address and utility provider.

Ask Catholic Charities of Lubbock about direct assistance

Catholic Charities of Lubbock operates a Direct Client Assistance Program that may help eligible residents with utilities, food, clothing, hygiene products, eye care and prescriptions. Its office is located at 102 Avenue J, and the main number is 806-765-8475.

The agency currently directs TXU Energy, Reliant and Atmos Energy customers to an initial assistance form. Customers of other utility companies are advised to call 211 for referrals. Catholic Charities limits the number of forms it accepts each week, so residents should apply as early as possible.

Documents commonly requested by Catholic Charities include identification for every adult in the household, Social Security cards for household members, proof of income from the previous 30 days and verification of benefits such as disability, SSI, unemployment, child support or housing assistance.

If you have received an eviction notice, get legal help immediately

Financial assistance and legal assistance are not the same thing. If a landlord has delivered a notice to vacate or filed an eviction case, contact Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas at 806-763-4557 or 800-933-4557. Its Lubbock office is located at 1711 Avenue J. The organization provides free civil legal services to people who qualify, including help with some landlord and tenant matters.

Applying for assistance does not automatically stop an eviction, shutoff or court deadline. Read every notice, keep copies and ask the agency or court what must be done while your application is being reviewed.

Have this information ready

Before calling, gather your photo ID, lease, recent income documents, current bill, shutoff notice or eviction paperwork, household information and any benefit award letters. Write down the name of every person you speak with, the date of the call and any confirmation number.

If an agency promises payment to a landlord or utility company, ask whether that promise places a temporary hold on collection or disconnection. Do not assume the account is protected until the landlord or utility confirms it.

Assistance is usually based on eligibility and available funding. Programs, hours and requirements can change, so call before visiting.

Sources and official resources: 211 Texas, City of Lubbock Community Development, Catholic Charities Direct Client Assistance and Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas.