Ameren Missouri customers who typically qualify for energy assistance may now be eligible to receive up to $1,400 in bill payment assistance across various programs. This follows Ameren’s $4 million donation to community action agencies last week. These dollars are in addition to the $1 million in support for victims of the May 16 tornado.

Energy assistance funds are still available and are being distributed by local area agencies. 

“It’s important that we partner with local agencies that can bundle our energy assistance programs and provide additional services for our customers,” said Joe Solari, vice president of customer experience for Ameren. "Please don't hesitate to reach out for assistance, even if you're unsure about your eligibility. We're here to help." 

Ameren Missouri’s partner agencies include United Way, Cooldownstlouis.org and Cooldownmissouri.org, the Urban League, Community Action Agency of St. Louis County, North East Community Action Corporation, East Missouri Action Agency, Central Missouri Community Action and more. 

"We are grateful for Ameren Missouri's donation and remain ready to connect those in need with resources and support on a daily basis," said Michelle Tucker, president and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. "We know the power of connection and we've seen significant success when our families reach out to seek available assistance, such as a mother of six who was recently displaced from her home. After bundling numerous energy assistance programs and funds from Ameren Missouri and more, her family was able to relocate and is now set up with a payment they can afford." 

Here is a list of Ameren Missouri’s available energy assistance programs, which can be bundled depending on eligibility: 

• Dollar More can provide eligible households with up to $600 per calendar year when their bill is past due. 
• Keeping Cool provides up to five bill credits of $50 each (up to $250 per year) to eligible customers from May through September for two calendar years, which means customers could qualify for up to $350 under the program. 
• Missouri’s Summer Energy Crisis Intervention Program offers those in financial crisis up to $300 from June through September. 
• Ameren Energy Relief Grant provides a $150 one-time grant to eligible customers with a balance of at least $150. 

Other available energy assistance programs include: 

• New Start Energy Relief: past-due bill forgiveness up to $1,000 for neighbors who have experienced being unhoused and are seeking permanent housing. 
• Veterans Energy Assistance: active-duty military and veterans can receive up to $600 when their bill is past due. Call 211 for more information. 

As summer temperatures soar and air conditioners continue to work overtime to keep people safe and cool, Ameren Missouri is also encouraging customers to utilize the online tools it offers for managing energy usage. Customers’ online accounts give them a clear view of their energy usage and personalized recommendations: 

• Energy Usage Dashboard: track usage by appliance and time of day, view bill projections and explore custom savings tips. 
• Off-Peak Awareness: shift energy use to off-peak hours – typically after 9 p.m. and before 8 a.m. 
• Budget Billing & Auto Pay: avoid seasonal spikes and stay on top of bills with flexible payment options. 
• Alerts and Notifications: get reminders, outage updates and energy assistance alerts via text or email. 
• My Recommendations: view personalized energy efficiency tips and programs to save money. 

“It’s also important for our customers to understand how to use our online tools and to see how they’re using energy so they can take control of their usage,” said Solari. “These tools are designed to empower customers to manage their energy in ways that work for them.” Customers can also access their account through the Ameren app or by calling 800-552-7583. Ameren Missouri’s customer service representatives can access these insights even if customers do not have an online account. For a comprehensive list of energy assistance programs, bill payment options and money-saving resources, visit AmerenMissouri.com/EnergyAssistance.