LIHEAP (Help Paying Energy Bills)

What is LIHEAP?

LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps households pay heating and cooling bills. It can also help if you're facing an energy crisis, like a shut-off notice from your utility company.

The program is run by each state, so the rules, deadlines and payment amounts vary where you live. Applying is free.

Who qualifies

You must have a low income. 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.

If you already get SNAP, SSI or TANF, you may qualify automatically in many states. Check your state's rules to be sure.

Other factors that may matter include:

• Your household size
• Who lives with you
• Your heating or cooling costs
• Whether you own or rent your home
• Your utility bills and account status

How much does it pay?

Each state decides how much money to give out and who gets priority. Most states limit payments to one household per year. The amount you receive depends on your income, household size, energy costs and fuel type.

Because funding is limited, apply as soon as the season opens in your state.

How to apply

You'll apply through your state's LIHEAP office or a local agency that handles it for your state. The process and documents you need vary by state.

Start by visiting your state's LIHEAP page to find out:

• When applications open
• Where to apply (online, by mail, in person or by phone)
• What documents to bring or send
• The deadline

Documents you may need

Most states ask for:

• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefits letter)
• Proof of household members and their ages (birth certificates, ID)
• Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage)
• Your utility bills or account number
• Social Security numbers for household members

Check your state's requirements before you apply. Having your documents ready can speed up the process.

What happens after you apply

The agency will review your application and let you know if you qualify. This can take several weeks. If you're approved, the money usually goes directly to your utility company to pay your bill.

Some states offer emergency help faster if you're in crisis. Ask your local LIHEAP office about expedited applications.

Renewals

Most households need to reapply each year. The application period usually opens before the heating or cooling season starts. Watch for notices from your state about when to apply for the next year.

Related help

If you need help paying other utilities or housing costs, look into:

• SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) can free up money in your budget
• Local utility assistance programs through community action agencies
• State and local housing programs
• Weatherization assistance to make your home more energy-efficient

Use our benefits screener to find other programs you may qualify for.

Find your state's program

Every state runs LIHEAP. Click your state below to learn about income limits, deadlines, application methods and what documents you'll need:

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• District of Columbia
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming