Utility providers can now receive bulk payments covering past due amounts for customers
who have been economically impacted by Covid-19. Through this new process, payments
to utility providers will be streamlined and consolidated by covering multiple customers in
one bulk payment, or a series of bulk payments.

This new process makes it easier for utility providers to collect past-due payments for
qualified applicants. In this expedited process, customers just complete a simple form
certifying they are a renter that has been impacted by Covid-19, and are in need of utility
assistance. The customer does not need to complete a full application if they are only
applying for utility assistance.

How does the bulk process work?
There are three simple steps in the bulk distribution process.
1. Utility providers share self-certification forms for completion by eligible customers;
○ The form can be shared via mail, electronically, or in any other capacity.
○ The form certifies that the customer is: 1) eligible to participate in the
program, 2) authorizes the state to pay the utility company on behalf of the
customer, and 3) authorizes the state to access customers' utility account
information.
2. Utility providers collect forms and complete the DFA template spreadsheet and
upload completed information to a secure portal.
3. DFA reviews bulk submittal, approves eligible customers, and processes a single
payment for all approved expenses directly to the utility provider.