What Is LIHEAP?
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that helps low-income households pay for home heating and cooling costs. Congress appropriates funds to states, territories, and tribal organizations, which then distribute assistance to eligible residents through local agencies.
LIHEAP can be a lifeline during extreme weather — helping families avoid service shutoffs in winter or dangerous heat in summer.
What Does LIHEAP Cover?
Depending on your state, LIHEAP may provide assistance with:
- Heating costs: Help paying heating bills during winter months (natural gas, electricity, oil, propane, wood)
- Cooling costs: Assistance with summer air conditioning bills or purchase of cooling devices
- Energy crisis assistance: Emergency help for households facing shutoff notices or dangerous situations
- Weatherization: Some programs fund home improvements (insulation, caulking) to reduce long-term energy costs
Who Is Eligible for LIHEAP?
LIHEAP eligibility is primarily income-based. General federal guidelines state:
- Household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level (FPL), OR at or below 60% of the state median income — whichever is higher
- Households that include a member receiving SNAP, SSI, TANF, or certain veterans' benefits may be automatically eligible in some states
- At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
States have flexibility to set lower income thresholds and may prioritize households with elderly members, young children, or individuals with disabilities.
How Much Assistance Can You Receive?
Benefit amounts vary widely by state, household size, income, energy costs, and available funding. Benefits are typically paid directly to your utility company or fuel supplier on your behalf — you usually don't receive cash. Some states may provide a one-time seasonal payment; others offer multiple forms of assistance per year.
How to Apply for LIHEAP
- Find your state or local LIHEAP office: Visit the HHS LIHEAP State Contact Listing or call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline at 1-866-674-6327.
- Apply early: Funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis in many states. Apply as soon as your state's application period opens.
- Prepare your documents: You will generally need proof of identity, proof of address, recent energy bills, documentation of all household income (pay stubs, benefit award letters), and Social Security numbers for household members.
- Submit your application: Many states allow online, mail, or in-person applications through local Community Action Agencies (CAAs).
Emergency LIHEAP Assistance
If you've received a shutoff notice or have an unsafe heating/cooling situation, contact your local LIHEAP office immediately and ask about crisis or emergency assistance. This is separate from regular LIHEAP and is designed to prevent immediate harm.
Other Utility Assistance Resources
| Resource | Description | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Utility Company Programs | Many utilities offer their own low-income rate discounts or assistance funds | Contact your utility directly |
| NLIEC's Energy Assistance | National directory of energy programs | energyassistance.net |
| 211 Helpline | Connect with local social services including energy help | Dial 2-1-1 |
| State Weatherization Programs | Free home energy improvements for eligible households | Contact state energy office |
A Note on Funding
LIHEAP is funded annually by Congress, and funds are limited. Availability can change from year to year, and programs often run out of funds before the end of the season. Applying early is one of the most important steps you can take to secure assistance.