Wisconsin's annual winter protection against nonpayment shutoffs for residential heating service runs November 1 through April 15. For the approaching winter, that means November 1, 2026 through April 15, 2027. If your service is already off, contact the utility now about restoring it instead of waiting for November.
Official information checked October 21, 2026. The dates below apply the PSC's standing annual rule; this is not a newly announced 2026 benefit.
Quick Summary
The protection concerns utility service that supplies or affects your home's primary heat. It does not erase unpaid bills or replace a payment agreement. Use October to address a shutoff notice, request a manageable arrangement and find assistance.
Which service is protected?
The PSC's residential customer rights page covers service supplying primary heat and service needed for that heat, including water used with steam or water radiators. Do not assume every water account or every service interruption is covered. Tell your utility how the service supports your heating system.
If heat is already disconnected
Arrange reconnection directly with the utility. The PSC's prior winter guidance explains that disconnected customers must make payment arrangements before utilities are required to reconnect. Its current rights page also requires pre-winter contact attempts and payment-plan discussions with customers disconnected for nonpayment.
What to request before November 1
- Use the phone number on your bill or shutoff notice. Explain whether service is active or disconnected.
- Ask for a deferred payment agreement for arrears. Request a written record of the down payment, installment dates and reconnection conditions. These are details to negotiate, not a statewide promised amount.
- Ask separately about budget billing for future usage. Budget billing spreads estimated annual charges; a debt agreement addresses an outstanding balance.
- Keep the notice, account details and a record of calls for follow-up. This is a practical call checklist, not a required benefits application packet.
Where to request payment assistance
The PSC payment assistance page directs households to Wisconsin energy and housing assistance and 1-866-HEATWIS (432-8947). Assistance eligibility is separate from winter shutoff protection; this article does not claim a grant amount or income threshold.
The PSC lists these utility payment-plan contacts:
- Alliant Energy: 800-255-4268
- Madison Gas & Electric: 800-245-1125
- Superior Water, Light & Power: 800-227-7957
- We Energies: 800-842-4565
- Wisconsin Public Service: 800-450-7260
- Xcel Energy: 800-895-4999
If you cannot resolve the dispute
First try the utility. If that fails, use the PSC complaint page or call 800-225-7729 or 608-266-2001. Consumer Specialists are available Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wisconsin time. Have your notice and contact history ready to explain the unresolved issue. The PSC warns that information submitted to it is subject to public records law.
Important Reminder
Keep paying agreed installments and current charges. Municipal-utility tenants should ask specifically what payment arrangements are available; the PSC notes that municipal utilities are not always required to offer deferred agreements. Do not treat the winter period as a bill waiver.
Disclaimer
Statewise Apply Guide is an independent informational website. It is not a government agency, benefits office, law firm, financial advisor, or official application portal. We do not process applications, determine eligibility, issue payments, or provide legal, tax, financial, or benefits advice. Program details, deadlines, eligibility rules, and application links may change. Always confirm information with the official agency before applying.