As the winter heating season begins , Columbia Gas of Ohio reminds customers they can receive help paying their utility bills through the 2024-25 Special Reconnect Order and Home Energy Assistance Program . Columbia also offers payment plans to make home energy costs more manageable and predictable .

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio announced that between Oct . 14 , 2024 , and April 18 , 2025 , customers can take advantage of the SRO . Customers who are facing

shut-off or who have already been shut off can contact Columbia to avoid disconnection or reconnect service for $ 175 . Customers in need of reconnection must pay an additional reconnection fee , and customers who use the SRO must establish a payment plan for their outstanding balance .

HEAP , federally funded and administered through the Ohio Department of Development , is a one-time benefit applied directly to customers ’ utility bills . Customers eligible for HEAP must have a

household income at or below 175 % of the Federal Poverty Guidelines . Customers can take advantage of HEAP through their local community action agency .

Columbia also offers a variety of payment plans for all customers . Payment plans make utility bills more manageable and can help customers anticipate

and budget for their utility bill .

For information on payment plans or bill payment assistance programs , call Columbia Gas at 1-800- 344-4077 . Columbia ’ s Customer Care team can work with customers on an individual basis to help them find a program or payment plan that works for their situation .

Stay safe Turning on the heat for the first time can serve as a crucial reminder to stay safe and perform safety checks throughout the home . Check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors regularly and replace batteries when needed . Do not use stoves , ovens or grills for heat or any appliance that is not

made to heat your home . Keep flammables away from heaters . Clear snow and ice around vents and meters and ensure there is a clear path to your meter at all times .

If you believe you smell natural gas , stop what you are doing , leave the area immediately , and call 911 and Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077 .