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The DTE Application form is a critical document for individuals applying for the Low Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP) offered by DTE Energy. Designed for households that may struggle with energy costs, this program creates a pathway to affordable monthly payments based on a household's income. Individuals must meet specific federal and state eligibility criteria, including an income level that does not exceed 150% of the Federal Poverty Level and an energy consumption history that aligns with average usage. Completing the application involves several key steps: applicants must provide a copy of their Social Security card, proof of valid identification for all household members, and verified income statements for everyone residing in the home. The application must be mailed with supporting documents within a week to ensure timely processing. It’s crucial for applicants to regularly check that the completed form includes all necessary sections and signatures, along with a recent DTE bill, to prevent delays. The application operates on a first-come, first-served basis, highlighting the importance of prompt submission. For any inquiries or guidance during the process, applicants can reach out to helpful resources like United Way for Southeastern Michigan. The LSP program aims to assist those facing financial challenges, ensuring they have the support needed to maintain essential energy services.

Form Sample

WE CAN HELP YOU!

DTE ENERGY OFFERS A LOW INCOME SELF- SUFFICIENCY PLAN (LSP)

This program allows you to make affordable monthly payments based on your income. The remaining portion of your bill is paid monthly with your energy assistance funds.

The federal and state eligibility criteria are:

Income is equal to or less than 150% of Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Guidelines

Energy consumption (electric and gas) over the past 12 months is compatible with average annual usage for a residential customer

To begin or continue your service, follow these simple steps:

1. Fill out the enclosed application; applicant MUST enclose a copy of their Social Security card

2.Provide proof of a valid identiication for all individuals living in your household

3.Provide proof of income of all individuals living in your

household

4.Mail all documents in the self- addressed envelope provided

What do you need to do to enroll or re-enroll?

New and continuing LSP program participants must submit an application to take advantage of the program.

Your completed application must be received as soon as possible; enrollment is on a irst-come-irst-served basis.

For more information, contact

United Way for Southeastern Michigan at

844-598-7967 or visit LiveUnitedSEM.org/LSP

LOW INCOME SELF-SUFFICIENCY PLAN (LSP) APPLICATION 2015-16

BEFORE MAILING, CHECK TO BE SURE THAT:

Each section in this application form has been carefully completed ; primary DTE account holder has signed at bottom of page one

Copy of MOST RECENT DTE bill is enclosed

Supporting documents proving identity are enclosed for each household member listed in Section 2 *Driver’s License

*State ID

*Birth Certiicate

*Voter’s Registration Card

*School ID

*Health Insurance Card

Social Security Number Requirement is met:

*Social Security Numbers for all members of the household, AND *Social Security Card for applicant, OR

*IRS Tax Transcript displaying full Social Security number, OR *Medicare Card displaying full Social Security number, OR

*Statement from Social Security Administration displaying full Social Security number, OR

*Receipt of Application for Social Security Card from Social Security Administration displaying Social Security number

Supporting documents are enclosed to prove earned income and expenses are enclosed for all earning members in the household.

Options include:

*Paystubs: All paystubs for the past 30 days. NO PAYSTUBS OLDER THAN 60 DAYS ACCEPTED

*Letter from employer dated within the last 60 days. Letter must include amount of income received per month, must be on company letterhead signed by a supervisor

*Health insurance premium payments, child support payment statements, union dues deductions

Supporting documents are enclosed to prove unearned/ixed income for the household.

Options include:

*SSI, Social Security, RSDI, SSDI, SDA and/or Pension statement *Child support statement from the court or website *Unemployment award letter dated within the last 60 days *Adoptions subsidy/Direct Care pay stubs

*Proof of alimony or spousal support

Self-employed household members who earned less than $10,000 last year (before taxes) have signed the Self- Employment Declaration Form; self-employment income of over $10,000 must include federal or state tax forms or Self-employment Proit Loss Statement

If there is ZERO income for all household members, sign and date the No Income Declaration Form. Mail the completed application, along with all necessary supporting documentation within the next 7 days:

Mailbox for UWSEM LSP

535 Griswold Street, Ste. 111-610

Detroit, MI 48226

*Address is used for mail only - no walk-in applications accepted at above address

Have questions or concerns regarding your eligibility? Need help completing this form?

Call toll free 844-598-7967 (Mon-Fri 9-5), or visit LiveUnitedSEM.org/LSP

SECTION 1: PRIMARY ACCOUNT HOLDER ADDRESS INFORMATION

1.

First Name:

 

Middle Initial:

 

Last Name:

 

 

 

 

Social Security No.:

 

 

Birth Date:

 

 

 

DTE Energy Acct No.:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(12‐digit number at top right corner of bill)

2.

DTE Energy Service Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City:

 

 

 

State:

 

 

ZIP:_

 

County:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.Mailing Address (if different from above, or P.O. Box) Street Number & Name:

City:

 

State:

 

ZIP:_

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Phone Number/Contact Information

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Primary Phone:

 

 

 

□ Cell Phone

 Permission to text updates

Secondary Phone:

 

 

 

□ Cell Phone

 Permission to text updates

Email Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.Place a check in front of the ONE PRIMARY REASON you are applying for energy assistance at this time:

Low‐income household

Job loss

Medical hardship

Other (explain):

6.

Previous energy assistance received in prior 12 months?  Yes  No

If Yes,: Date of assistance:

 

 

 

Amount of Assistance: $

 

Name of Agency:

 

 

Utility Provider:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Applied for/received the Home Heating Credit in the last 6 months? □ Yes, month received

□ No

 

7.

Were you referred by Welfare Rights Organization?  Yes

 No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.

Have you, or do you currently, receive benefits from DHS?

 Yes

 No

 

 

9.

Do you:  Rent

 Own

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE REQUIREMENT ‐ Please sign and date below. Otherwise, this application will be incomplete. I understand failure to provide the information requested may result in denial of my application. I also understand that United Way will certify all information contained in this application and the information is the sole means for determining my eligibility for enrollment and participation in DTE Energy's Low Income Self‐Sufficiency Plan (LSP). I also understand that I have eight (8) business days to provide all verifications and supporting documents requested and failure to provide them may result in denial of my application. I affirm the information provided is true and subject to verification, and that information for all household members can be shared. If any information I provide is false, I may be denied eligibility for the Low Income Self‐Sufficiency Plan. I authorize United Way and utility vendors to request and receive information from other parties as necessary to reach a determination for my eligibility. I understand that my customer information will be shared with state and federal agencies to meet the energy assistance guidelines. Additionally, a representative may call at my home and may contact other people in order to verify my eligibility for enrollment.

Signature of Applicant

Date

Page 1 of 8

SECTION 2: HOUSEHOLD INFORMATION

IDENTIFICATION DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

Examples of identity verification required for EACH household member listed below are copy of driver's license; state ID; passport; Social Security card; birth certificate; Permanent Resident or Alien Registration Receipt Card; or voter registration card.

 

Relation to

Social Security

 

 

 

Name (full name)

Applicant

Number

Date of Birth

 

Check all that Apply

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Pregnant

1.

 

 

 

□ US citizen/legal alien

 

 

 

Full‐time student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Disabled

 

 

 

 

□ Pregnant

2.

 

 

 

□ US citizen/legal alien

 

 

 

Full‐time student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Disabled

 

 

 

 

□ Pregnant

3.

 

 

 

□ US citizen/legal alien

 

 

 

Full‐time student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Disabled

 

 

 

 

□ Pregnant

4.

 

 

 

□ US citizen/legal alien

 

 

 

Full‐time student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Disabled

 

 

 

 

□ Pregnant

5.

 

 

 

□ US citizen/legal alien

 

 

 

Full‐time student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Disabled

 

 

 

 

□ Pregnant

6.

 

 

 

□ US citizen/legal alien

 

 

 

Full‐time student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Disabled

 

 

 

 

□ Pregnant

7.

 

 

 

□ US citizen/legal alien

 

 

 

Full‐time student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Disabled

 

 

 

 

□ Pregnant

8.

 

 

 

□ US citizen/legal alien

 

 

 

Full‐time student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Disabled

 

 

 

 

□ Pregnant

9.

 

 

 

□ US citizen/legal alien

 

 

 

Full‐time student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Disabled

(If more space is needed, please attach separate sheet)

 

 

 

Page 2 of 8

SECTION 3: HOUSEHOLD INCOME WORKSHEET

1.Employment Income: Is anyone in your household employed (including any adult and/or child care provider payments received)?  No  Yes  If Yes, it is necessary to complete the income validation table below and include PROOF of INCOME in your return envelope with your application.

Examples of proof of income required for EACH household member listed below are copy of most recent check stub (past 90 days); wages (W‐2 form); federal tax forms (1040, 1040EZ, etc.); Michigan state tax forms (MI‐1040, etc.); unemployment statement/letter; Social Security statement/letter for this year; pension statement; Workers' Compensation statement; alimony or spousal support statement/letter; disability statement; interest, annuity or dividend statement; rental income receipt; DHS FIP papers.

Name (first and last)

Employer’s Name

How Often Paid

Gross Earnings

 

 

 

(before taxes)

 

 

 

 

 

 

□ Weekly

 

1.

 

□ Every other week

$

 

□ Twice a month

 

 

□ Monthly

 

 

 

□ Seasonal/Temp/Contractual

 

 

 

□ Weekly

 

 

 

□ Every other week

 

2.

 

□ Twice a month

$

 

 

□ Monthly

 

 

 

□ Seasonal/Temp/Contractual

 

 

 

□ Weekly

 

3.

 

□ Every other week

$

 

□ Twice a month

 

 

 

 

 

□ Monthly

 

 

 

□ Seasonal/Temp/Contractual

 

 

 

□ Weekly

 

4.

 

□ Every other week

$

 

 

□ Twice a month

 

 

 

□ Monthly

 

 

 

□ Seasonal/Temp/Contractual

 

2. Unearned Income: Does anyone in your household receive any unearned income?  No

 Yes If Yes,

please complete the income validation table below and include PROOF of INCOME in your return envelope.

Examples of Unearned Income are Social Security benefits; pension/retirement benefits; veteran's benefits; military allotments; DHS FIP cash assistance; Supplemental Security Income (SSI); Workers' Compensation; child support; tribal payments; adoption subsidy; disability benefits; unemployment compensation; rental income; Section 8 energy subsidy payments.

Name (first and last)

Income Source

How Often Received

Amount Received

1.

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

2.

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

3.

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

Page 3 of 8

3. Self‐employment Income: Is anyone in your household self‐employed?  No  Yes If Yes, complete the income validation table below, as well as the SELF‐EMPLOYMENT DECLARATION OF INCOME FORM on page 5, and return in the provided envelope with your application.

 

Type of Work

 

Gross Monthly

Name (first and last)

or Business

Business Name & Address

Income (pre‐tax)

1.

 

 

$

2.

$

3.

$

4.No income: If no one in your household currently receives income, check this box and then complete the NO INCOME DECLARATION FORM on page 6 and return in the provided envelope with your application.

ELIGIBLE EXPENSES

INCOME EXPENSES – Does your household pay any of the following expenses?  No

 Yes If Yes, check

all that apply and ATTACH PROOF.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name (first and last)

Expense

 

Monthly Amount

 

□ Health Insurance Premiums

 

 

1.

□ Union Dues

 

$

 

□ Court‐Ordered Child Support

 

 

 

 

 

□ Out‐of‐Pocket Child Care Costs (limited)

 

 

 

 

 

2.

□ Health Insurance Premiums

 

 

□ Union Dues

 

$

 

 

 

□ Court‐Ordered Child Support

 

 

 

 

 

□ Out‐of‐Pocket Child Care Costs (limited)

 

 

 

 

 

Page 4 of 8

SELF‐EMPLOYMENT DECLARATION OF INCOME FORM

Complete this section for each self‐employed person listed in Section 3 on page 4 of the application.

Full name of this self‐employed person:

Their current address:

Their Social Security number:

Gross annual income (before taxes) received for this work last year: $

Description of work performed:

SELF‐EMPLOYED PERSON LISTED ABOVE MUST SIGN HERE: I understand that (1) if my actual earnings are different from those reported above, I might be required to report any changes to United Way, and (2) I must include a 1099 tax form from last year with this application if my gross annual income from this work was more than $10,000 (before taxes).

Signature of self‐employed member of household

Date

 

 

Full name of this self‐employed person:

Their current address:

Their Social Security number:

Gross annual income (before taxes) received for this work last year: $

Description of work performed:

SELF‐EMPLOYED PERSON LISTED ABOVE MUST SIGN HERE: I understand that (1) if my actual earnings are different from those reported above, I might be required to report any changes to United Way, and (2) I must include a 1099 tax form from last year with this application if my gross annual income from this work was more than $10,000 (before taxes).

Signature of self‐employed member of household

Date

!Make a copy of this sheet if there are more than two self‐employed persons in this household "

Page 5 of 8

NO INCOME DECLARATION FORM

Complete this section if you checked the box in Section 3 on page 4 of the application

stating that no one in your household currently receives any income.

Full name of applicant:

Current address:

Social Security number:

APPLICANT MUST ATTEST TO THE FOLLOWING BY SIGNING BELOW:

No member of this household receives any earned income (employment or self‐employment) or unearned income (Social Security benefits, pension/retirement benefits, veteran's benefits, military allotments, DHS FIP cash assistance, Supplemental Security Income [SSI], Workers' Compensation, child support, tribal payments, adoption subsidy, disability benefits, unemployment compensation, rental income, Section 8 energy subsidy payments). I understand that I might be required to report any changes to United Way if this changes.

Signature of Applicant

Date

Page 6 of 8

BASIC NEEDS ASSESSMENT

The following assessment will be used to help United Way determine any supportive services for which you may be eligible. Your responses to these questions have no bearing on your final eligibility determination for this LSP program. Please check ONE ITEM in each category that best describes your household situation.

 

Household

No income

 

 

Income

Insufficient income and/or spur‐of‐the‐moment or unsuitable spending

 

 

 

Can meet basic needs with support; proper spending

 

 

 

Able to meet basic needs and manage debt without support

 

 

 

Income is sufficient & well managed; has additional income, allowing monetary funds to be saved

 

 

Level of

No job

 

 

Employment

 

 

Temporary, part‐time or seasonal employment; inadequate pay; no benefits

 

 

 

Employed full time; inadequate pay; few or no benefits

 

 

 

Employed full time with adequate pay and benefits

 

 

 

Maintains permanent employment with adequate income and benefits

 

 

Housing

Homeless or threatened with eviction

 

 

Status

 

 

In transitional, temporary or substandard housing; current rent/mortgage payment is

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

unaffordable (over 30% of income)

 

 

 

Housing is safe and stable, but only somewhat adequate

 

 

 

Housing is safe and adequate, but subsidized

 

 

Food

Housing is safe and adequate, and unsubsidized

 

 

 

 

 

 

Availability

No adequate amount of food or the means to prepare it; household depends on other

 

 

 

sources of free or low‐cost food items

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Household receives some form of nutritional government assistance (for example, food stamps)

 

 

 

Usually able to meet basic food needs, but occasionally needs assistance

 

 

 

Can meet basic food needs without assistance

 

 

 

Can choose to purchase any food items the household desires

 

 

Safety

Residence is not safe; immediate level of danger is extremely high; possible CPS involvement

 

 

 

Current level of safety is unsatisfactory; brief protection is needed; level of danger is high

 

 

 

Current level of safety is minimally adequate; ongoing safety planning is essential

 

 

 

Environment is safe but future of such is unclear; safety planning is key

 

 

 

Environment is apparently safe and stable

 

 

Disability

CRISIS – chronic symptoms affect housing, employment, social interactions, etc.; unable to meet

 

 

and Life Skills

 

basic needs for daily living

 

 

 

VULNERABLE – sometimes has chronic symptoms affecting housing, employment, social inter‐

 

 

 

 

actions, etc.; can meet a few but not all basic daily living needs without some form of assistance

 

 

 

SAFE – occasionally experiences chronic symptoms affecting housing, employment, social

 

 

 

 

interactions, etc.; able to meet most but not all basic daily living needs without assistance

 

 

 

BUILDING CAPACITY – condition controlled by services or treatment; able to meet all basic needs

 

 

 

 

for daily living without support

 

 

 

THRIVING – no identified disability; able to provide beyond basic daily needs for self and family

 

 

Family

Insufficient support from family or friends; some form of abuse/neglect is present

 

 

 

 

 

Relations

Family/friends offer support but lack ability or resources to properly help; family members do not

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

relate well with each other; there exists potential for conflict or neglect

 

 

 

Receives some support from family/friends; household members seek to change negative

 

 

 

 

behaviors and practice communicating and supporting each other

 

 

 

Strong, support from family or friends; household members support each other’s efforts

 

Support network is expanding; household is in a stable state and members communicate openly

! Continued on next page "

Page 7 of 8

BASIC NEEDS ASSESSMENT (continued)

Transportation

No access to public or private transportation; may have vehicle that is inoperable

 

Transportation is available but unreliable, unpredictable and/or unaffordable; may have car but

 

 

no insurance, license, etc.

 

Transportation is available and reliable, but limited and/or inconvenient; drivers are licensed and

 

 

minimally insured

 

Transportation is generally accessible to meet basic travel needs

 

Transportation is readily available and affordable; car is adequately insured

Health Care

No medical coverage, and there is an immediate need

 

No medical coverage; quite challenging to access needed medical care; some household members

 

 

experience poor health

 

Some household members (e.g. children) have medical coverage

 

All household members can get medical care when needed, but budget may be strained

 

All household members are covered by affordable, adequate health insurance

Adult Literacy

Literacy problems are serious barriers to gaining adequate employment (for example,

 

 

no diploma or GED)

Currently enrolled in literacy or GED programs; sufficient command of the English language

Household members over 18 have high school diploma/GED

Need additional education/training to improve employment situation or are resolving literacy problems to function effectively

Have completed education/training programs to gain employment; no literacy problems

ARE YOU READY FOR COACHING?

To get a sense of how ready you are to work with a coach to obtain the support and skills you need to become financially stable and reach your goals, check the box in front of each statement below that describes you.

I am interested in improving my financial situation over the next one to three years.

I want to learn new financial skills.

I want an honest, outside perspective.

I'm ready to commit some thought, time and energy to managing my finances.

I could use someone to help me focus, challenge me, and hold me accountable to my commitments and goals.

I realize that my success depends on my willingness to take action.

I am a person who is motivated by a deadline or the need to report my progress.

I am willing to make changes to have the life I want.

If more than four of these statements describe you, you are ready for coaching!

For Office Use Only – Please do not write in this area!!

2015/2016

G:

 

E:

ARR:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Referral Partner:

Page 8 of 8

Document Specifications

Fact Name Description
Program Overview DTE Energy offers a Low Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP) that allows eligible participants to make affordable monthly payments based on their income.
Eligibility Criteria Applicants must have an income of 150% or less of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and energy consumption within average residential usage for the past 12 months.
Application Steps To apply, complete the application, include a copy of your Social Security card, proof of identification for all household members, and proof of income.
Submission Method All documents must be mailed using the self-addressed envelope provided. Ensure your completed application is received promptly, as enrollment is first-come-first-served.
Contact Information For assistance, contact the United Way for Southeastern Michigan at 844-598-7967 or visit LiveUnitedSEM.org/LSP for more details.
State Governing Laws Eligibility and application for this program are governed by federal guidelines and specific state regulations pertinent to energy assistance programs.

Steps to Filling Out Dte Application

After ensuring you qualify, you can start on your application. Completing the DTE Application form accurately and thoroughly is essential so that you can receive the benefits offered under the Low-Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP). Gather all necessary documentation before diving in to make the process smoother and quicker.

  1. Begin by filling out the Primary Account Holder section. Include your first name, middle initial, last name, Social Security number, and birth date.
  2. Provide your DTE Energy Account Number, as well as your service address and mailing address if it differs from the service address.
  3. Enter your primary and secondary phone numbers in the contact section, along with your email address.
  4. Indicate your reasons for applying for assistance by checking the appropriate box.
  5. If you have received energy assistance in the previous 12 months, fill in the details about that assistance.
  6. State if you were referred by any Welfare Rights Organization, and mark whether you currently receive benefits from the Department of Human Services.
  7. Indicate whether you rent or own your home.
  8. Make sure to sign and date the application. This signature is necessary for the validity of your application.
  9. In Section 2, list all household members, showing their relation to you and their Social Security numbers, birth dates, and identifying any that are pregnant, disabled, or students.
  10. Gather identification documents, like driver's licenses, birth certificates, or Social Security cards for each household member.
  11. In Section 3, complete the Employment Income worksheet if anyone in your household is employed. Be prepared to submit proof of income.
  12. Complete the Unearned Income section if applicable, and include any relevant documentation to support these claims.
  13. Recheck every section of the application to ensure all areas are filled out correctly, including verifying signatures and the enclosure of required documents.
  14. Use the self-addressed envelope to mail in your completed application and all supporting documents.

Completing these steps correctly ensures your application will be processed smoothly. If you have any uncertainties or require assistance at any stage, don't hesitate to reach out for help.

More About Dte Application

What is the Low Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP)?

The Low Income Self-Sufficiency Plan, or LSP, is a program offered by DTE Energy designed to help low-income households manage their energy bills. Participants can make affordable monthly payments based on their income. The remaining balance is covered by energy assistance funds, which help ensure that energy costs remain manageable for those who qualify.

Who is eligible for the LSP program?

Eligibility for the LSP program is determined by two primary criteria. First, household income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level guidelines. Second, the energy consumption over the past 12 months must align with the average usage for a typical residential customer. This makes the program accessible for many low-income families striving for financial stability.

What steps should I follow to apply for the LSP program?

To apply for the LSP program, you must complete a few key steps. Begin by filling out the application form and ensure that you include a copy of your Social Security card. You’ll also need to provide valid identification for everyone in your household, proof of income for each adult, and mail all documents in the self-addressed envelope included with the application. It is important to provide accurate and complete information for the application to be processed smoothly.

How do I ensure my application is complete before mailing?

Before mailing your application, double-check that every section of the application is filled out. Make sure the primary DTE account holder has signed the form. Include a copy of your most recent DTE bill and be certain that all necessary supporting documents are enclosed, which should verify identities and prove income for each household member. Incomplete applications may lead to delays or denial.

What should I do if I have questions while filling out the application?

If you encounter any issues or have questions while completing the application, help is available. You can reach out to the United Way for Southeastern Michigan by calling 844-598-7967. They can assist you Monday through Friday during regular business hours. Additionally, their website, LiveUnitedSEM.org/LSP, provides detailed information that could address your queries.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once your application is submitted, it will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. It's important to mail your completed application, along with all documents, within seven days to avoid missing out on the program. Be prepared for a potential follow-up from United Way or utility vendors for verification purposes. Your eligibility will be confirmed based on the information provided, and you will be notified of your enrollment status.

Common mistakes

  1. Incomplete Application Form: One of the most common mistakes is failing to fill out every section of the application form. Each section needs complete information to ensure eligibility. Missing details can delay the process or result in outright denial.

  2. Neglecting Required Signatures: The primary account holder must sign at the bottom of the first page. An unsigned application is considered incomplete and will not be processed.

  3. Not Including Supporting Documents: Applicants often forget to include important documents, such as a copy of their most recent DTE bill or proof of identity for all household members. Remember that without these documents, the application may not be accepted.

  4. Providing Inaccurate Income Statements: Some individuals do not provide correct or complete income data. All income sources need to be accurately reported, as discrepancies can lead to issues. Include the necessary proof of income or risk denial.

  5. Ignoring Deadlines: Applicants frequently overlook the urgency of submitting their applications and documents within the specified timeframe. A delay can jeopardize eligibility, as the program operates on a first-come-first-served basis.

  6. Failing to Verify Social Security Requirement: The application mandates that the social security number requirements are met. Some may not provide social security numbers for all household members or fail to include the applicant's social security card. Ensure this requirement is fulfilled.

  7. Providing Outdated or Unsupported Income Documentation: Individuals sometimes include pay stubs older than 60 days or fail to provide valid documentation for self-employed individuals. All income evidence must adhere to the most recent criteria outlined.

Documents used along the form

To apply for the Low Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP) through DTE Energy, various forms and documents are required in addition to the DTE Application form. Each of these documents serves to verify information provided in the application and ensure that applicants meet the necessary requirements. Below is a list of common forms and documents that may be needed.

  • Social Security Card: A copy of the applicant's Social Security card is mandatory. It serves as proof of the applicant's Social Security number, an essential component for eligibility determination.
  • Valid Identification: Each household member must provide proof of identity. Acceptable documents include a driver's license, state identification card, passport, or birth certificate.
  • Proof of Income: Documentation showing income for all earning household members is necessary. This may include recent pay stubs, employer letters, or tax forms that disclose total earnings.
  • Health Insurance Documentation: Statements related to health insurance payments or other relevant financial obligations may be required to assess the financial situation of the household.
  • No Income Declaration Form: For households with no income, applicants should complete and sign this form to confirm the absence of earnings.
  • Self-Employment Declaration Form: Self-employed individuals earning less than $10,000 must use this form. Those earning more are required to submit tax forms or a profit loss statement.
  • Pension Statement: Operators may request recent pension or retirement benefit statements as proof of unearned income for household members who are retired or receiving similar benefits.
  • Child Support Statement: Documentation confirming child support payments is necessary if applicable. This ensures that all forms of income are reported accurately.
  • Unemployment Award Letter: If a household member is receiving unemployment benefits, an award letter dated within the last 60 days must be included in the application packet.
  • Adoption Subsidy Documentation: For families receiving adoption subsidies, relevant pay stubs or award letters should be submitted to verify unearned income.

Inclusion of these documents along with the DTE Application form is essential for processing and reviewing eligibility for enrollment in the LSP. Applicants should ensure that all documentation is complete and accurate to facilitate a smooth application process. Any missing information may lead to delays or denials of assistance.

Similar forms

The DTE Application form is similar to an energy assistance program application, which is designed to help low-income households in need of financial support for their utility bills. Both documents typically require detailed personal information, proof of income, and identification for all household members. The focus remains on establishing eligibility based on income thresholds and previous assistance received, ensuring that applicants can access necessary resources to maintain essential services.

Another document that resembles the DTE Application is the Social Security Administration’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) application. Like the DTE Application, it mandates the submission of personal identification and proof of income to determine eligibility for financial assistance. Each form guides applicants through specific requirements and supporting documentation tailored to their situation, ultimately aiding families facing financial hardship.

A Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) application shares similarities with the DTE Application. Both forms are intended to assess an applicant’s eligibility for energy assistance based on income and household size. Moreover, they instruct applicants to provide evidence of identity, income, and any past assistance received, thereby streamlining the process for those in need.

The Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is another document that parallels the DTE Application, particularly concerning the income verification process. Both require detailed information about household income, identification, and documentation to support the claims made by the applicant. Additionally, they function as initial steps toward securing necessary financial assistance to support individuals and families.

A state aid program application often resembles the DTE Application in structure and purpose. Both documents require personal information, including social security numbers, and demand proof of current financial status. The intention is to ensure that benefits are distributed to individuals who meet the designated eligibility criteria established by the governing agency.

The Medicaid application holds similarity to the DTE Application form as it mandates an applicant to provide demographic information along with proof of income and identification for all household members. Both applications are designed to assess the financial situation of the applicants to determine eligibility for assistance programs and protect vulnerable populations.

An unemployment benefits application is also comparable to the DTE Application in its requirement for personal information and documentation. Applicants must disclose their employment status and provide proof of income or lack thereof. This consistency facilitates a clear assessment of individual circumstances and ensures that assistance is allocated appropriately based on need.

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) application follows a similar format to the DTE Application, focusing on household information and income verification. Applicants are required to submit specific documents that establish their need for assistance, creating a parallel in the verification process employed by both applications. This ensures that support is extended only to qualifying individuals and families.

Finally, a housing assistance application resembles the DTE Application by requiring details about the applicant's living situation and financial standing. Both documents necessitate submitting proof of income and household identification. By doing so, these applications aim to provide necessary support to those facing challenges in securing stable living conditions and utilities.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the DTE Application form, your attention to detail can greatly impact the outcome of your application. Here are four guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Do: Ensure that all sections of the application form are filled out completely. Incomplete applications may result in delays or denial.
  • Do: Provide a copy of your Social Security card along with the application. This is crucial for verifying your identity.
  • Do: Include supporting documents such as proof of income and identification for all household members. These documents are essential for assessing eligibility.
  • Do: Mail your application and all necessary documents within the next 7 days using the self-addressed envelope provided. Prompt submission is critical.
  • Don’t: Skip any required signatures. The primary account holder must sign the application; otherwise, it will be considered incomplete.
  • Don’t: Submit pay stubs that are older than 60 days. Only the most recent pay stubs, specifically from the past 30 days, are acceptable.
  • Don’t: Forget to include a copy of your most recent DTE bill. This documentation helps verify your energy usage and account status.
  • Don’t: Ignore the instructions regarding the submission of verification documents. Each document plays a role in your application being processed effectively.

Following these guidelines closely can facilitate a smoother application process and ensure that you receive the assistance you need.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the DTE Application Form

  • Everyone is eligible automatically. Many believe that simply applying guarantees qualification. In reality, eligibility is based on specific income and energy consumption criteria.
  • You only need your application. Some think that submitting the application alone suffices. However, proof of identity, income, and supporting documents are mandatory for processing.
  • Mailing the application isn't urgent. It's a common mistake to assume that timing doesn't matter. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, so timely submission is crucial.
  • Any documents are acceptable. Many applicants misunderstand which documents can be used to prove identity and income. Only the specified documents listed in the application will be accepted.

Key takeaways

Filing the DTE Application form is an important step for those eligible for the Low Income Self-Sufficiency Plan (LSP). Here are key takeaways to help ensure a smooth process:

  • Start by filling out the entire application form accurately. Every section must be completed, and the primary account holder needs to provide a signature.
  • An applicant must include proof of identity for all household members. Acceptable documents include driver’s licenses, state IDs, birth certificates, or health insurance cards.
  • Applicants must submit documentation proving both earned and unearned income for all household members. This may include recent pay stubs, employer letters, or other financial statements such as Social Security or unemployment letters.
  • A Social Security card for the applicant must be enclosed. An alternative could be various documents that show the Social Security number, such as an IRS Tax Transcript or a Medicare card.
  • For those with no income, it is essential to complete and sign the No Income Declaration Form to comply with program requirements.
  • Mail the completed application along with all required documents within seven days. Pay attention to use the self-addressed envelope provided for submission.
  • Follow up on your application status if not acknowledged after submitting. For clarifications or assistance, you can contact the United Way at their toll-free number or visit their website.

Completing the DTE Application form diligently can greatly ease the process of obtaining assistance. Ensure everything is included, check the requirements, and send it off promptly.