How to get help with rent + utility bills in Birmingham

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Spire Energy
Two big thumbs up for finding support. Photo via Spire’s Facebook

It’s no secret that the pandemic has had a major impact on Birmingham. That’s why Spire is helping their Alabama customers with rent, utility and home energy expenses. Find out who can get Birmingham rental assistance + how to apply.

What is the Alabama rental assistance program?

Downtown Birmingham - Birmingham rental assistance
Find support in the ‘Ham. Photo via Jacob Blankenship for Bham Now

Spire recently announced that their Alabama residential customers can benefit from a new rental assistance program. It covers important bills to give a helping hand to anyone who needs it.

  • Past due, current and up to three months of expected rental costs
  • Past due, current and up to three months of expected utility and home energy expenses

Want to know if you qualify for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program? Here are the details:

  • You’re a Spire Alabama customer who rents your property (or you’re a landlord).
  • Your household must have an income at or below 80% of the area median income—find yours here.

“We hear about the impact of these programs daily because there’s such a need right now. The impact is life-changing.”

Bethany Monahan, Manager of Community and Agency Services, Spire

Need some help paying your bills? Find out what options you have from Spire. Spoiler: there are quite a few.

Homeowners, don’t worry. Help is on the way for you too. Keep an eye out for updates so you can take advantage of these resources!

Who else is providing rental assistance + payment help in Birmingham?

Birmingham hearts mural
We ❤️ Birmingham + everyone who helps its citizens thrive. Photo via Hannah Chambley for Bham Now

Along with Spire, there are utility companies and government offices that are working to help citizens who are economically impacted by the pandemic. Here are some of them.

City of Birmingham

In January, the City of Birmingham announced an emergency rental assistance program of $6.2M. The city is working to establish their distribution, but you can apply for the emergency request for proposals.

Alabama Power

Alabama Power offers help through different payment assistance programs. Fnd out what programs they offer and if you’re eligible.

Birmingham Water Works Board

Birmingham Water Works customers can apply for the H2O Foundation, a separate nonprofit, and the H2O Covid Assistance Program.

Jefferson County

The Jefferson County rental assistance program provides one-time financial assistance for basic expenses such as rent, water, or prescription medication.

United Way of Central Alabama 2-1-1

If you’re not sure where to turn, finding help is as easy as dialing 2-1-1. The United Way’s call center can connect you with available resources.

Are there more companies providing rental assistance + help here in Birmingham? Let us know on social @BhamNow.

Cecilia Wood
Cecilia Wood
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