Can't Pay Your Electric Bill? Programs That Can Help

If you're struggling to pay your electric bill, two main federal programs can help. LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) provides cash to help pay your heating and cooling costs. The Weatherization Assistance Program makes free repairs and improvements to lower your energy bills long-term. Both programs are free to apply for, and you may qualify for both at the same time.

LIHEAP: Cash Help for Energy Bills

LIHEAP helps low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. You can get help whether you own or rent your home. The program also helps if you've gotten a shut-off notice or face an energy crisis.

Who Qualifies

Each state runs its own LIHEAP program and sets its own income limits. Federal law allows states to help households with income up to the greater of 150% of the poverty guidelines or 60% of your state's median income. This means you may qualify even if your income is higher than you think.

You may qualify automatically if you already receive:

• SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
• SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
• TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)

Since rules differ by state, use our benefit screener to check if you likely qualify in your area.

When to Apply

Funding for LIHEAP is limited, and each state opens its applications at different times. Most states open their programs before heating season or cooling season starts. Apply as soon as your state opens its program to increase your chances of getting help.

Learn more about LIHEAP and find your state program.

Weatherization Assistance Program: Free Home Improvements

The Weatherization Assistance Program, run by the U.S. Department of Energy, makes free energy-efficiency improvements to your home. These repairs and upgrades can lower your energy bills and keep your home more comfortable year-round.

What Kind of Work They Do

Common improvements include:

• Adding insulation
• Air sealing to reduce drafts and air leaks
• Repairing or replacing heating or cooling systems

The specific work depends on what your home needs most and what will save the most energy.

Who Qualifies

You may qualify if your household income is at or below 200% of the poverty guidelines. You may also qualify automatically if you get SSI or TANF.

The program often prioritizes help for:

• Older adults
• People with disabilities
• Families with children
• Households with high energy bills

If You Rent

If you rent your home, you usually need your landlord's permission before the weatherization agency can start any work. Contact your local agency to discuss the process.

Find your local weatherization agency.

How to Apply for Both Programs

Applying for either program is completely free. Only the government agency decides if you qualify based on your income and situation.

For LIHEAP: Contact your state program directly through the LIHEAP website. Have your income information and any documents that show your heating or cooling costs ready.

For Weatherization: Find your local weatherization agency through the U.S. Department of Energy website and contact them to apply.

You can apply for both programs at the same time. Getting help from one program does not affect your eligibility for the other.

Other Ways to Get Help

Your utility company may also have its own bill payment assistance programs or hardship programs. Contact your electric company directly to ask what help they offer.

Use our benefit screener to find other programs you may qualify for. You might be eligible for additional assistance that can help with other expenses and free up money for your energy bills.