Heating Bill Help: What LIHEAP Is and How to Apply
When the weather turns cold, a heating bill can be hard to pay. Before you plan any side income, it is worth knowing about help that may already exist. Trimming a bill first can make your first goal smaller and easier to reach.
What LIHEAP is
LIHEAP stands for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. According to the federal Administration for Children and Families, it is a federally funded program that helps reduce the cost of home energy bills, energy emergencies, weatherization and minor energy-related home repairs. Help can include preventing a shutoff, reconnecting service, and repairing or replacing heating equipment.
Who may qualify
Eligibility is based on income, and each state and territory sets its own requirements. I could not confirm a single national income number, so please check with your state. Because it is income-based, extra side income could matter, so ask how earnings are counted.
How to apply
- Go to USAGov’s page on help with energy bills to check whether you may qualify.
- Find your state or territory’s LIHEAP office. Call the National Energy Assistance Referral hotline at 1-866-674-6327, weekdays 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Eastern.
- Apply with that office. Some take applications online, and others in person.
Ask about funding limits and deadlines when you call, since they vary by state.
Other help to ask about
The Weatherization Assistance Program helps lower-income households make homes more energy efficient, and USAGov says you may qualify through your income or by receiving SSI or TANF. You apply through your state office. States also have different rules about when a utility may shut off service, and these can depend on weather, age or disability. Ask your utility directly.
Watch for scams
LIHEAP does not give direct grants to individuals and does not charge a fee. If someone offers a grant or asks you to pay, report it to the HHS Fraud Hotline at 1-800-447-8477. Never pay with gift cards.
Our guide on trimming your heating bill has more ideas, and if you are on SSI or Medicaid, read what to check before you earn. This is general information only.
More on Replace a Bill
- Before Winter: Ways to Trim Your Heating Bill First
- Trimming Your Electric Bill: Usage, Energy Checks and Budget Billing
- Side Income and SSI, Medicaid or Housing Help: What to Check Before You Earn
