If your gas or utility bills are way out of control, then apply to get $1,068 in government grants to help you with your bills. Grants never have to be paid back.

The Energy Information Administration estimates a 23% hike in fuel costs for consumers this winter without any additional government funding. Households that rely on natural gas will have an even larger cost jump at 35%.

"Money budgeted for groceries or medical supplies is now being consumed by higher heating bills."

The Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is typically available for qualifying families; however funding isn't keeping up with the soaring energy prices. What are your alternatives?

If you are past due on bills then catch up now!

Some families have turned to alternative energy sources, such as purchasing wood pellet stoves, which use scrap wood as fuel. However, there is always a costly initial investment!

“But for those with no alternatives to conventional fuels, monthly bills are taking a serious bite out of household budgets. And many families that have been getting by without assistance may still have to apply for help after the next monthly gas bill or the next oil delivery hits.”

5 Energy Saving Tips:

1. Add insulation on the floors, in the attic, and to the exterior walls of your house.

2. Weather seal all cracks on the outside of your house and insulate all heating ducts within your house.

3. Install an energy efficient heat pump system, which can provide three times the heat for the same amount of electricity.

4. Keep your fireplace damper closed if you are not making a fire.

5. Close your curtains and shades at night and open them during the day to let natural sunlight heat up your house.