Can I get help if I have a utility shut-off notice?
Yes. LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps pay heating and cooling bills during an energy crisis, including when you have a shut-off notice.
- Published Sep 18, 2026
- Reviewed Sep 21, 2026
- 1 min read
The answer
Yes. LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps households pay heating and cooling bills, and can help in an energy crisis such as a shut-off notice.
If you have a shut-off notice, time is critical. Contact your state's LIHEAP program right away to see if you can get emergency help.
Who qualifies
Each state sets its own income limit. Federal law lets states serve households up to the greater of 150% of the poverty guidelines or 60% of the state median income.
That means the income limit is different in every state. You may qualify even if you think your income is too high.
Households that get SNAP, SSI or TANF may qualify automatically in many states.
How to apply
Contact your state's LIHEAP program through your local community action agency or your state's website.
Funding is limited and application periods vary by state, so it helps to apply as soon as the season opens. If you have a shut-off notice, explain your emergency situation when you apply.
Applying is free. Only the agency decides who qualifies.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as an energy emergency for LIHEAP?
A shut-off notice is an energy crisis. So are broken heating or cooling systems when the weather is dangerous, no fuel, or immediate risk of homelessness due to utility bills.
Will LIHEAP pay my full utility bill?
LIHEAP helps pay energy bills, but may not cover the entire amount. The amount depends on your income, household size, and your state's rules.
When is the best time to apply for LIHEAP?
Apply as soon as your state's application period opens. Funding is limited. If you have a shut-off notice, apply immediately and explain your emergency.
Programs in this article
Official sources
Last reviewed Sep 21, 2026. Found an error? Tell us.
Written by
Program rules & income limits
Researched from official agency sources and checked against our editorial policy.
Keep reading
All news and guidesSep 21, 2026 · 3 min read
ACA Marketplace Subsidies: How Premium Tax Credits Work
Premium tax credits help lower your monthly insurance payments if you buy health coverage through the ACA Marketplace. Learn how they work and if you qualify.
Sep 21, 2026 · 5 min read
Benefit Cliffs: What Happens to Your Benefits When You Earn More
A benefit cliff is when earning a little more money causes you to lose a lot of benefits. Learn how this happens and what you can do about it.
Sep 21, 2026 · 4 min read
Benefits for College Students: SNAP, Pell Grants and Health Coverage
College students may qualify for SNAP food assistance, Pell Grants, Medicaid, and other government benefits. Here's what you need to know about each program and how to apply.
Sep 21, 2026 · 3 min read
Benefits for Disabled Adults: SSI, SSDI, Medicaid and More
Disabled adults may qualify for cash benefits, health coverage, and food assistance. Learn about SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, SNAP and how to apply.
