Help With Bills

The following utility service providers have ways to help pay your bill:

• MODESTO IRRIGATION DISTRICT

Public Affairs Specialist Kate Hora encourages people who are unemployed or have been laid off not to ignore their bill. The MID will make every attempt to work out a payment plan with customers in good standing. Customers on a payment plan need to stick to the plan. To arrange payment plans, call MID customer service at 526-7337. The MID does not require proof of a layoff or unemployment. Hora also recommends reading the insert received with utility bills to get energy-saving tips and to visit www.mid.org for low-income program and rebate program information.

• TURLOCK IRRIGATION DISTRICT

Public Information Division Manager Michelle Reimers said customers who lose their jobs should contact the TID office at 883-8222 as soon as possible to set up a payment plan. They are trying to be flexible in the midst of the recession and will work individually with each case. No proof of a layoff or unemployment is required.

• CITY OF MODESTO

Leslie Curtin, customer services manager in charge of utility billing, said Modesto's goal is to find a way to keep services connected. Customers are encouraged to contact the city at 577-5395 to communicate hardships and set up payment extensions and arrangements. Senior low-income and disabled low-income programs are available.

• CITY OF TURLOCK

Jeri Gilley, financial customer service manager, said customers who pay half of what they owe can arrange payment plans for the remaining 50 percent. For information, call 668-5570.