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The Weatherization Assistance Program: Free Home Energy Upgrades

The Weatherization Assistance Program provides free energy-efficiency improvements like insulation and heating system repairs to low-income households. Find out if you qualify and how to apply through your local agency.

Program rules & income limits
  • Published Sep 21, 2026
  • Reviewed Sep 21, 2026
  • 2 min read
A worker installing attic insulation in a home

Quick answer: The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) offers free energy-efficiency improvements to households earning at or below 200% of the poverty guidelines. You apply through your local weatherization agency.

What is the Weatherization Assistance Program?

The Weatherization Assistance Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, makes free energy-efficiency improvements to homes. These upgrades reduce your heating and cooling costs and make your home more comfortable.

Common improvements include:

  • Insulation in attics, walls and crawl spaces
  • Air sealing to stop drafts and leaks
  • Repairs to heating and cooling systems
  • Weather stripping and caulking

Who can qualify

Your household may qualify if your income is at or below 200% of the poverty guidelines for your family size. For 2026, here are the limits for the contiguous United States:

Family sizeAnnual income limit
1 person$31,920
2 people$43,280
3 people$54,640
4 people$66,000
5 people$77,360
6 people$88,720
7 people$100,080
8 people$111,440

Higher income limits apply in Alaska and Hawaii. Households receiving SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) can qualify automatically.

Priority often goes to:

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

How to apply

You apply directly through your local weatherization agency, not through a state or federal office. You can search for your local agency on the Department of Energy's website.

When you apply, be ready to share:

  • Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements)
  • Proof of citizenship or legal residency
  • Utility bills
  • Information about your home (age, type of heating system, etc.)

Applying is free. Only the local weatherization agency decides whether you qualify.

Special rules for renters

If you rent your home, you usually need your landlord's written permission to have weatherization work done. Ask your landlord before you apply.

What to expect

Once approved, a local contractor will inspect your home and recommend upgrades. The work is done at no cost to you. The improvements are permanent, so you benefit from lower energy bills even if you move.

The time from application to completed work varies by location. Your local agency can tell you how long it typically takes in your area.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a cost to apply or get weatherization services?

No. Applying for the Weatherization Assistance Program is free, and all approved improvements are done at no cost to you.

What if my income is slightly above the limit?

Rules may vary by state. Some states use different income limits. Contact your local weatherization agency to ask about your specific situation.

Can renters apply?

Yes, but you usually need your landlord's written permission. Ask your landlord before you apply to your local weatherization agency.

How long does the process take?

Timelines vary by location. Contact your local weatherization agency for an estimate of how long it will take in your area.

Who decides if I qualify?

Your local weatherization agency reviews your application and decides whether you meet the income and other requirements. Only they can confirm your eligibility.

Programs in this article

WeatherizationState-run · US Department of EnergyThe Weatherization Assistance Program makes free energy-saving home improvements, like insulation and heating repairs, for households with low income.

Official sources

  1. U.S. Department of Energy - Weatherization Assistance Program

Last reviewed Sep 21, 2026. Found an error? Tell us.

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Program rules & income limits

Researched from official agency sources and checked against our editorial policy.

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