Personal finance with Kathy Kristof

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Almost all the nation’s utility companies -- that’s gas, electric and phones -- sponsor programs for low-income consumers that could cut rates by 20% or more, personal finance columnist Kathy Kristof writes. They also provide so-called ‘crisis grants’ to cover at least a portion of past-due bills.

You don’t have to be destitute either. A temporary job loss can qualify you for some relief.

Southern California Edison recently surveyed its customers and estimated that some 200,000 qualifying customers have failed to apply for assistance.

Are you one of them?