The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps over 6 million low income households pay their heating and cooling bills each year. LIHEAP provides direct payments to utility companies, emergency heating and cooling assistance, weatherization services, and energy crisis intervention to prevent utility shutoffs.
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About LIHEAP
LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered by states and tribes. Each state sets its own eligibility guidelines, benefit amounts, and application procedures within federal guidelines. LIHEAP funding varies by year and is distributed based on climate and population factors.
LIHEAP Eligibility
Eligibility is generally based on income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level or 60% of state median income (whichever is higher). Households receiving SNAP, SSI, or TANF may be automatically eligible. Priority is given to households with elderly members, disabled individuals, or young children.
Types of LIHEAP Assistance
LIHEAP Benefits
- Heating assistance: Payments toward winter heating bills
- Cooling assistance: Help with summer cooling costs
- Crisis assistance: Emergency help to prevent utility shutoffs
- Weatherization: Home improvements to reduce energy costs
How to Apply
Apply through your state or local LIHEAP office or community action agency. Applications are typically accepted seasonally. You need proof of income, utility bills, and identification. Many states offer online applications. Contact your local community action agency or call 211 for LIHEAP information in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact your state LIHEAP office or local community action agency. You can also call 211 for information. Applications are typically seasonal. You need proof of income, utility bills, Social Security numbers, and identification.
Households with income at or below 150% FPL or 60% of state median income generally qualify. SNAP, SSI, and TANF recipients may be automatically eligible. Priority goes to households with elderly, disabled, or young children.
LIHEAP benefit amounts vary by state, household size, income, and energy costs. Benefits typically range from $200 to $1,000 per heating season. Crisis assistance may provide additional one-time payments to prevent shutoffs.
