Ask for a reasonable payment plan
Minnesota's Cold Weather Rule season began October 1 and runs through April 30. The Public Utilities Commission says protecting residential electric or natural-gas heat service requires making and keeping a payment plan agreed with the utility. The calendar alone does not make every unpaid account untouchable.
The utility must offer a plan reasonable for the household's finances. Renters can qualify when the heat-related account is in their name. Customers with disconnected service can work with the utility on a plan and reconnection, according to the current commission guidance.
Delivered fuel has different rules
The rule does not directly cover delivered oil, propane or wood, although electricity that runs a furnace can fall under the electric-service protection. An energy-assistance grant and a Cold Weather Rule plan are separate processes; filing for one should not be assumed to complete the other.
If a payment cannot be made, contact the utility immediately about revising the plan. The commission warns that missed payments can lead to shutoff and a utility may not have to offer another plan until the next season. Appeal or inability-to-pay procedures can apply when agreement fails. The fresh seasonal opening is a reason to act on the account, not a guarantee that no bill needs attention until spring.