BOWLING GREEN, Mo. — Utility assistance isn’t just for the disadvantaged.

The North East Community Action Corporation is taking applications for a program that can help moderate-income customers of Ameren pay off their overdue utility bills.

Ameren recently announced a half-million dollar expansion of its Clean Slate program. An increase in the income limits means customers who meet the guidelines can receive up to 500 dollars of assistance.

For instance, a family of four making up to $65,500 a year could qualify. The limit for one person is $31,900.

NECAC will take applications in Lewis, Lincoln, Macon, Marion, Monroe, Montgomery, Pike, Ralls, Randolph, St. Charles, Shelby and Warren counties. Other agencies are taking applications elsewhere.

There are restrictions. Customers will have to pay 25 percent of the past due balance before they can receive assistance.  They also have to prove that COVID has had an economic impact on their household, cannot be eligible for the LIHEAP program and cannot have received funding under Clean Slate last summer.

More information about the application process is available by calling NECAC at 573-324-6633.