always know in advance what you’ll pay and it eliminates the summertime spike, which makes a real difference when you’re managing a tight budget. Free Home Weatherization TEP partners with community organizations to provide upgrades like weather-stripping and sun screens that improve efficiency and reduce energy costs. Learn more at tep.com/ weatherization-assistance Community Agencies Several local agencies provide emergency bill payment assistance using funds from the federal LIHEAP program and the statewide Home Energy Assistance Fund administered by Wildfire at wildfireaz.org/ find-help/energy-assistance . Here are a few: • Interfaith Community Services: (520) 297-6049 icstucson.org • Pima County Community Action Agency: (520) 724-2667 pima.gov/887/Community- Assistance-Division • The Salvation Army: (520) 792-1111 salvationarmyusa.org/az/tucson Not Sure Where to Start? Try Neighbor Connect If you’re unsure where to start, TEP’s Neighbor Connect is a great first step. It’s a single online form that connects you with assistance programs and community partners based on your situation. Learn more at tep.com/neighbor-connect
This tool is designed for non-urgent requests. If you need immediate support, contact TEP directly. A Few Easy Ways to Reduce Your Bill Starting Now Financial assistance can help with current balances, but small daily habits can lower future bills: • Set your thermostat a
few degrees higher when you’re away or sleeping. Even small adjustments can reduce cooling costs. • Keep blinds and curtains closed during peak heat to block sunlight. • Switch to LED light bulbs, which use less energy and produce less heat. • Unplug electronics when not in use to avoid “phantom” energy use. TEP also offers rebates on energy-efficient products, including smart thermostats and appliances, that can help reduce long-term costs. The bottom line: Ask for help before things get harder and find which options are available to you. ◆
QUICK REFERENCE: KEY CONTACTS Power AZ / LIHEAP applications: DES A-to-Z Arizona Portal atoz.az.gov LIHEAP helpline: (866) 494-1981 TEP Customer Care: (520) 623-7711 TEP Neighbor Connect: tep.com/neighbor-connect Pima County Community Action Agency: (520) 724-2667 Interfaith Community Services: (520) 297-6049 Primavera Foundation: (520) 395-6420.
July & August 2026, Never Too Late | Page 5
Pima Council on Aging
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