NY A04105

Directs the Public Service Commission to establish minimum standards for utility payment plans, requiring that agreements (including down payments) be reasonable based on household income, ability to pay, payment history, bill size, and special hardship circumstances

Allows payment installments as low as $10 per month with no down payment for customers demonstrating financial need, and requires a minimum 21-day period from bill date before payment is due

Prohibits utility service termination for residential customers enrolled in payment plans unless they violate utility rules, disconnection is necessary for health/safety reasons, or termination is ordered by the commission

Requires utilities to offer customers the option to spread rate increases ratably over the remainder of their payment plan period when rates increase by 20% or more over two consecutive billing cycles

Establishes eligibility through participation in income-based assistance programs including TANF, SNAP, SSI, Medicaid, HEAP, federal public housing assistance, and other programs identified by the commission