Duncan: CAN offers help with APS bills in Sun Cities

The mission of the Sun City Community Assistance Network is to, “Connect people with resources to enhance their standard of living.”

In other words, Sun City CAN helps people save money on things like property taxes, income taxes, utilities, Medicare premiums, prescription drugs and other things.

Many benefits go unclaimed simply because people are unaware that the benefits exist. In an effort to shed light on some of the help that is available to low-income seniors, I will write a guest commentary each month about a different senior help program.

Below is a listing of two refunds available for low-income seniors that some may not realize are available.

APS help

Sun City Community Assistance Network (Sun City CAN) has funds available to help people who are experiencing a crisis and have overdue APS bills.

During this coronavirus emergency, CAN officials are conducting interviews by phone and gathering needed information by email. If you are experiencing a documented crisis (loss of income, excessive medical expenses, unexpected repairs, etc), Sun City CAN is able to pay up to $800 on your APS bill.

To qualify for crisis assistance with your electric utility bill, you must meet the following requirements.

• Have a monthly income from all sources that is less than $2,080 for a single person or $2,818 for a two-person household (200% of the Federal Poverty Level guidelines).
• Must be a current APS customer (not disconnected).
• Have an acceptable crisis reason that is documented (loss of income, excessive medical expenses, unexpected repairs, etc).

If you think you might qualify, call the CAN office at 623-933-7530 and leave a message. A benefits assistance counselor will return your call you for the interview.

Editor’s Note: Hugh Duncan is Sun City Community Assistance Network board president.