If you are looking to cut down on the cost of your home energy bills, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help. The program is designed to help low-income citizens and families with the high cost of energy.
The LIHEAP program is offered in all 50 states, U.S. territories and tribal organizations, but it might go by a different name in each location. Learn how you can save money on your energy bills with LIHEAP – as well as the requirements you must meet to qualify for assistance and how to apply – by reading the sections below.
If you belong to a low-income household with hefty energy bills, you could be the ideal candidate for the LIEHAP program. Although the specific program qualifications vary a bit between states, you generally have to meet criteria that involve the following factors:
Since LIHEAP is designed to help low-income families, your household income must fall below a certain amount. Each state, territory and tribe is responsible for setting its maximum income amount. Usually, the income fluctuates based on the number of people in your home.
In some states, you need to provide information about your residency in the state. This could be as simple as submitting proof that you live there, like a utility bill or driver’s license. LIHEAP is open to U.S. residents and qualified nonresidents, like those who have green cards and people seeking asylum. Each household must have at least one person who meets either of these definitions.
Depending on where you live, your assets might be analyzed to see if you qualify for energy assistance. Assets are things of value that add to your overall income.
In some cases, you do not even need to determine if you qualify for LIHEAP. If you receive financial assistance through some other government programs, you automatically qualify for LIHEAP energy assistance. This is known as “categorical eligibility” and applies if you already receive benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
If you qualify for LIHEAP in your area, you can expect to receive two types of energy assistance:
Your state may define an emergency differently than other states. However, if you meet the criteria, the program can help you avoid losing power or help restore it after it is shut off.
LIHEAP is not a permanent solution and will not cover the entire cost of your energy bills. It is only meant to help you get back on your feet by easing the burden of an expensive energy bill. Typically, the highest amount of assistance is given to households with several members and the lowest total income.
If you qualify for LIHEAP and live in a home that requires you to pay your utility company directly, LIHEAP will send money to your utility company on your behalf. If you rent your home and your utilities are included in your rent, you will receive LIHEAP money instead.