Funded by a Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can offer relief to low-income residents on their home heating and cooling costs. This assistance can, in turn, reduce the risk of health and safety concerns such as illness, fire or eviction.
LIHEAP support is divided into two components, a Subsidy Component and a Crisis Component. The Subsidy Component can offset heating costs based on an individual’s income and primary fuel type. Benefits are paid directly to the primary fuel vendor. Enrollment for the Subsidy Component is open November-December each year.To utilize the Crisis Component, applicants must meet the same income eligibility requirements as the Subsidy Component, as well as have received a “disconnect” notice from their utility company or be within four days of running out of a non-metered fuel such as propane. Applications for the Crisis Component are accepted January – March 31. During the enrollment period for each component, applications are taken in person at the local community action office in each county. Homebound applicants are encouraged to contact their local office so that an application can be mailed.
