Home energy costs can be difficult to manage for some households. LIHEAP may provide assistance to eligible families with certain energy expenses. Here’s what the program may cover and how to review the requirements.
LIHEAP Assistance May Include
Available assistance and benefit amounts can differ based on location, household circumstances, and energy costs.
Type of Help
Home energy assistance
Who May Qualify
Based on income or other criteria
Where to Apply
State or local program
What Is LIHEAP?
LIHEAP stands for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. It is federally funded and designed to help eligible households with certain home energy expenses. The program is administered locally by states, territories, and tribal organizations, so application procedures and available assistance can vary depending on where you live.
Could Your Household Qualify?
Eligibility is generally determined using household income. In some states, participation in certain assistance programs may also be considered when determining eligibility.
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Household income: generally no more than 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or 60% of the state’s median income, depending on which applicable threshold is higher.
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SNAP — participation may be considered for eligibility in some states
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SSI — Supplemental Security Income may be relevant under applicable program rules
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TANF — Temporary Assistance for Needy Families may also be considered
Eligibility rules are established by the agency administering LIHEAP in each state, territory, or tribal area, so requirements can differ by location.
Good to Know
LIHEAP provides assistance rather than a loan, so approved assistance does not have to be repaid. Depending on the local program, support is generally applied toward eligible energy expenses or provided to the energy supplier on the household’s behalf instead of being distributed as unrestricted cash.
How Does the Process Work?
Specific procedures differ by location, but the process generally involves these four steps.
1
Review the eligibility requirements
Check the income limits and other eligibility criteria established by the program serving your area.
2
Locate the program in your area
LIHEAP applications are handled through state, territorial, tribal, or designated local agencies rather than through one national application office.
3
Submit an application
The agency may ask for information or documentation related to household income, household size, or participation in certain assistance programs.
4
Receive assistance if approved
Approved households may receive support toward eligible energy costs. The amount, timing, and method of assistance depend on local rules and household circumstances.
Check Current Availability
Application periods vary by location. Many states open regular heating assistance during the fall, while cooling or crisis assistance may follow different schedules. Funding can also be limited, so check the program serving your area for current availability and application dates.
Common Questions
Does this assistance need to be repaid?
No. LIHEAP provides assistance rather than a loan, so approved support does not have to be repaid.
Are the requirements the same everywhere?
No. Eligibility details, application periods, procedures, and available assistance can differ among states, territories, and tribal programs.
What if I’m facing a possible utility shut-off?
Some states provide crisis assistance for qualifying households facing urgent energy situations. Availability and requirements depend on the local program.
What if I don’t know whether I qualify?
You can review the eligibility criteria before applying. The next page provides additional details about requirements and how to find the LIHEAP program serving your area.
Want to Check the Eligibility Details?
Learn more about the eligibility criteria, possible documentation requirements, and how to locate the program in your state.
LEARN HOW TO APPLY →
This page independently provides general informational content. It is not operated by, affiliated with, or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Administration for Children and Families, or any other government agency.
