The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, commonly known as LIHEAP, helps families pay for their household’s energy expenses. This includes heating and cooling, weatherization, and necessary home repairs. Beneficiaries of other government programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) may automatically qualify for these benefits, and applicants with young children, elderly or disabled household members are even more likely to qualify for this type of government assistance.
Typically, LIHEAP beneficiaries who meet eligibility requirements automatically qualify for other assistance programs as well. Eligibility extends to those who qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), TANF, Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI), and certain veteran’s benefits.
Note: If you would like to receive application assistance, please call 1-866-674-6327 Monday-Friday during business hours.
Online and mail-in applications for Program Year 2022 will open on October 1, 2021. Please contact your local service provider or visit this webpage on or after October 1, 2021, to apply.
If applicants apply for LIHEAP assistance but receive a letter of denial, there is an appeals process. Like with many other government assistance programs, applicants may choose to file an appeal if they disagree with the decision on their application. In order to begin the process, claimants must refer to their denial notice. This notice provides specific instructions about the process of filing an appeal in their state.
In addition to LIHEAP, low-income families may qualify for other types of assistance. Many utility companies and local non-profit organizations can help needy households to pay their energy bills. To learn about the different types of assistance programs that may be available in their area of residence, claimants may contact the National Energy Assistance Referral Hotline at 866-674-6327.