7-Minute Guide

Eligibility & Application

LIHEAP may help eligible households manage certain home energy costs. Because the program is administered locally, eligibility rules, available assistance, application periods, and procedures can vary. Here’s what to know before you apply.

FIND MY STATE’S PROGRAM →

Opens the official state and territory contact directory

What Exactly Is LIHEAP?

LIHEAP stands for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. It is a federally funded program overseen by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Administration for Children and Families. Funding is distributed to states, territories, and tribal organizations that administer assistance in their communities.

There is no single nationwide LIHEAP application. The agency serving your location determines its application process, deadlines, eligibility procedures, and available forms of assistance.

What May LIHEAP Help With?

Heating Assistance
Eligible households may receive help with certain home heating expenses, depending on the program available in their area.
Cooling Assistance
Some programs may provide assistance with eligible cooling expenses, particularly during periods of high temperatures.
Energy Crisis Assistance
Certain local programs may offer additional procedures for urgent situations, such as a household facing a possible utility shutoff.
Weatherization and Minor Energy-Related Improvements
Depending on the local program, assistance may include certain weatherization or minor energy-related home improvements.

Who May Be Eligible?

Eligibility is generally based on household circumstances, including income. In some areas, participation in certain public assistance programs may also be considered. Exact requirements are established by the agency administering LIHEAP in your location.

Household Income
Income limits are 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.
Household Size
The number of people in the household may affect which income threshold or eligibility criteria apply.
Participation in Other Programs
In some states, participation in programs such as SNAP, SSI, or TANF may be considered when determining eligibility.

Eligibility Factors at a Glance

Factor What It May Mean
Income Level Household income may be compared with the limits established by the local program.
Program Participation SNAP, SSI, TANF, or other qualifying programs may be considered under local rules.
Household Size The number of household members can affect the income threshold used during review.
Where You Live Your location determines the agency, application process, deadlines, and specific requirements.

An Important Difference
LIHEAP provides assistance, not a loan. Approved benefits do not have to be repaid. Depending on the local program, assistance may be applied toward eligible energy costs or paid to the energy provider on behalf of the household rather than provided as unrestricted cash.

How to Start the Application Process

Procedures differ by location, but the process generally includes the following steps.

1
Find the Program Serving Your Area
Use the official directory to identify the LIHEAP agency responsible for your state or territory.
2
Review the Local Requirements
Check the current income limits, application dates, available forms of assistance, and other eligibility conditions.
3
Complete the Application
Follow the instructions provided by the local agency. Application methods can vary depending on the program.
4
Provide the Requested Documents
Submit the information requested by the agency so it can review your household’s eligibility.

What Documents May Be Requested?

Documentation requirements vary by location. Depending on the agency, you may be asked to provide information such as:

Proof of Household Income
The agency may request pay statements or other documentation used to verify household income.
Proof of Program Participation
If eligibility is connected to participation in another qualifying assistance program, supporting documentation may be required.
Recent Energy Bill
A recent bill may be used to verify the energy account, provider, or eligible household energy costs.
Identification and Household Information
The local agency may request documentation related to identity, residence, or household members.

Check Application Dates and Funding
Application periods and funding availability can vary by location. Regular heating assistance may have a seasonal application period, while cooling or crisis assistance may operate under different schedules. Checking your local program’s current information before applying can help you understand what is presently available.

Find the LIHEAP Program for Your State

The Administration for Children and Families provides an official directory with LIHEAP contact information for states and territories.

Need Help Finding the Right Program?

The National Energy Assistance Referral line can help people locate energy assistance resources in their area. The line is available on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM ET.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LIHEAP a loan?

No. LIHEAP provides assistance rather than a loan, so approved assistance does not have to be repaid.

Are the eligibility rules the same nationwide?

No. The program is administered locally, so specific requirements and procedures can vary by state, territory, or tribal organization.

Does meeting the income guideline guarantee assistance?

No. The agency reviews each application according to the applicable eligibility rules and other program requirements.

What if my utility service is at risk of being disconnected?

Some local programs may provide crisis assistance for urgent energy situations. Contact the program serving your area to learn what options and requirements apply.

Can I apply at any time of the year?

Not necessarily. Application periods and funding availability can differ by location and by the type of assistance being offered.

Ready to Review the Official Information?
Visit the official LIHEAP page to learn more about the program and find the appropriate resources for your location.

VISIT THE OFFICIAL LIHEAP PAGE →

acf.gov — U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

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.