Deadlines that put money back in your pocket
New Jersey runs real programs that cut your property tax, help with the heating bill, and keep the lights on through winter. Each one has a deadline, and missing it means the money is gone for the year. Here they are, nearest first, with who qualifies and exactly how to file.
Updated July 2026
Applications reopen October 1, 2026
Heating-bill help (LIHEAP) reopens
Who it's for: Households at or below 60% of the state median income. Last cycle's benefits ran $118–$1,278. The same application also checks you for USF (a monthly gas/electric bill credit) and PAGE.
What it is: The state's heating and utility assistance program. The 2025–26 cycle closed June 30; the next one opens October 1, 2026. Apply early — it's first-come while funds last.
How to do it: Hunterdon residents apply through NORWESCAP, 63 Main St, Flemington — (908) 454-7000 — or online at dcaid.dca.nj.gov, or call the hotline at 2-1-1 / 800-510-3102.
NJ DCA — Home Energy Assistance · Apply online (DCAid) · NJ 211 — energy assistance
File by November 2, 2026
Property-tax relief: ANCHOR, Senior Freeze & Stay NJ
Who it's for: Homeowners and renters. Stay NJ: homeowners 65+ with income up to $200,000 (benefit up to $6,500). ANCHOR and Senior Freeze have their own income limits — one application covers all three.
What it is: One combined form (PAS-1) covers all three state property-tax relief programs. Miss the deadline and the money is gone for the year. Senior Freeze payments started going out July 15, 2026; ANCHOR payments start September 15, 2026.
How to do it: File the PAS-1 online or on paper through the NJ Division of Taxation.
Stay NJ / PAS-1 (NJ Division of Taxation) · Senior Freeze details · ANCHOR details
Protection runs November 15 – March 15
Winter shutoff protection (Nov 15 – Mar 15)
Who it's for: Customers on LIHEAP, USF, Lifeline, or anyone who can't pay due to circumstances beyond their control. You must self-certify with your utility — protection isn't automatic.
What it is: NJ utilities can't shut off gas or electric for eligible residential customers during the winter window. Bills still accrue — this is shutoff protection, not forgiveness. If you're behind, call your utility and say the words 'Winter Termination Program.'
How to do it: Call your utility (JCP&L, Elizabethtown Gas, PSE&G) and self-certify. If you hit a wall, NJBPU takes complaints.
When it turns cold
Activates when temps hit 32°F or below
Code Blue warming centers
Who it's for: Anyone who needs somewhere warm — no paperwork, no questions.
What it is: When the county declares Code Blue, warming centers open at the county libraries (Flemington HQ 908-788-1444, Clinton branch 908-730-6262, Ringoes branch 908-968-4611) and the Senior Center in Flemington (908-788-1359). Hours vary by activation — call ahead before making the trip.
How to do it: Check NJ211's Code Blue page or call 2-1-1 to confirm what's open tonight.
Life in Hunterdon County, twice a week
Local events, what's opening and closing, road closures, and the scams going around. Free, every Monday and Thursday morning.