Can I get help with Utility costs?
There are a number of programs available to assist you in paying utility bills. There are various forms of payment plans and financial assistance that you may qualify for, as well as information on lowering utility costs. See the links below for additional information.
Practical tips on lowering your consumption costs can be found at the following utility company sites: APS, SRP .
Assistance with your energy bill may be available from your utility provider:
APS Customers
SRP Customers
TEP Customers
Unisource Energy Services Customers
Southwest Gas Customers
Additional Information on cutting Utility costs can be found on the Life & Work Connections web page.
Where can I get help to avoid foreclosure?
A number of government and non-profit agencies provide financial assistance and/or counseling designed to prevent foreclosure. In some cases emergency assistance is available for qualified individuals. Review the links below for additional information.
Don't Borrow Trouble! (520-792-3087) is an unbiased, Freddie Mac and community-sponsored, non-profit agency that knows the programs, products and people throughout Tucson. These resources can help you understand your financial decisions when it comes to homeownership and payday lending practices. Classes and workshops on home buys and foreclosure prevention are regularly offered.
The Arizona Department of Housing (1-877-448-1211) provides counseling to individuals and families who are behind on their mortgage payments or are facing foreclosure. You may also call the following foreclosure partners in Pima County: Administration of Resources and Choices (520-327-8250); Old Pueblo Community Foundation (520-546-0122 x228); and Family Housing Resources (800-622-7462, 520-318-0993).
Hope Now (800-995-4673) is an alliance between HUD-approved counseling agents, services, investors and other mortgage market participants that provides free foreclosure prevention information and assistance.
Interfaith Community Services (520-731-3076) Provides emergency financial assistance in Pima County for rent, utility payments and other expenses.
Southern Arizona Legal Aid (520-623-9465; 800-348-6789) provides legal assistance and representation for people with low incomes in certain civil matters, including foreclosure and landlord/tenant disputes.
Additional Information on avoiding foreclosure and eviction can be found on the Life & Work Connections web page.
Can I save money on medical costs?
If your medical costs are a financial burden or you don't have insurance because you can't afford it, visit the resources below for additional information.
The Arizona Department of Insurance provides consumer guides to health insurance, lists of health insurance companies, general health insurance resources, and health insurance resources for children and seniors. Call 1-800-325-2548 (Statewide) for more information.
Some individuals and children may qualify for government-subsidized health insurance through Arizona's AHCCCS and/or KidsCare Medicaid programs. For information on eligibility requirements or to apply for coverage, call (602) 417-4000. You can also visit Arizona Self Help to determine if you qualify for benefits.
The Arizona CoppeRx® Card can help cover prescription costs for people with and without health insurance. The plan can also help people with insurance cover the costs of prescriptions not covered by their health plan. The card even provides discounts on some pet medications. All Arizonans, regardless of income level, are eligible to receive the benefits of this discount service. Call 1-888-227-8315 to find out more.
Additional Information on saving money on medical costs can be found on the Life & Work Connections web page.
How Do I deal with my debts and credit cards?
A number of non-profit agencies provide information on ways to cut expenses and reduce the interest you pay on outstanding loans. Additionally assistance is available if you are the victim of scams or predatory practices. See the links below for additional information.
Consumer Credit Counseling offers a variety of articles and calculators to help you determine how much your debt is costing you as well as debt management and bankruptcy counseling. Call 1-866-889-9347 to start reducing your debt immediately.
Arizona Saves is a local non-profit that provides financial education classes, coaching and workshops. To find a listing of classes in your area or to sign up for a no-fee savings account call (602) 246-3500.
There are many people and companies out there trying to cash in on struggling families during these tough economic times. For resources on how to avoid scams and predatory practices visit the Arizona Attorney General's Website. Freddie Mac has additional resources on how to spot a scam at Don't Borrow Trouble.
Additional Information on dealing with debts and credit cards can be found on the Life & Work Connection web page.