Help with bills

Florida Power & Light is offing payment extensions

and bill assistance programs on a case-bycase basis, according to a statement to the Sun Sentinel. Customers can see all of the programs and apply online at FPL.com/GetHelp.

Boynton Beach will defer water utility late fees and will not disconnect service for residents affected by furlough. It also will provide a three-month deferral and subsequent payment plan and a 60 day grace period on bills once the furlough ends, according to a news release. Residents must provide a pay stub or letter from their employer stating they are furloughed. Call 561-742-6400 to make arrangements.

West Palm Beach Mayor Jeri Muoio announced federal employees not receiving a paycheck will be exempt from disconnection of utility service during the shutdown, according to a news release. The city also will provide payment extensions, make payment arrangements and waive late and disconnection fees for

affected employees with a paycheck showing gross pay was $0 for the pay period to qualify. Call

561-822-1300 to make arrangements.

Workers living in other cities can contact their utilities department to see if similar programs are offered.

AT&T and other mobile carriers are offering flexible payment plans and waiving late fees. Call to inquire.

Bank of America is offering financial assistance. Call 844-219-0690.

Chase has hardship programs in place to help those on furlough as well as customers who do business with federal agencies affected, according to a news release. Call

888-356-0023.

The Federal Employee Education & Assistance Fund is offering $100 grants and also has a long list of resources at http:// feea.org/shutdown/.

MORE FREEBIES: Go to SunSentinel.com/Furlough to see more offers.