Your Free Guide to LIHEAP

Your Free Guide to LIHEAP

What is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income families and individuals pay their utility bills. This federal benefits program is operated separately in each state, U.S. territory and Native American tribes. The LIHEAP program may have a different name depending on the state or territory. Specific services and benefits also vary in each location depending on climate or region, fuel needs and home type.

LIHEAP provides both emergency and non-emergency assistance to qualified applicants. Through the program, residents receive help paying their energy bills. They may even qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), which is a sister program that provides services designed to improve a home’s energy efficiency. 

For a more detailed description of LIHEAP benefits, refer to the section “LIHEAP Benefits.”

Eligibility for LIHEAP depends on household size and income, citizenship, residency and energy needs. Non-citizens may also be eligible for the program as long as they can prove their status as a qualified alien or permanent resident of the U.S.

Most states, territories and tribal agencies distribute LIHEAP funds on a first-come, first-served basis. Once a location runs out of funding for the program, it will close and applications will no longer be accepted.

Anyone interested in LIHEAP must apply with their state, territory or tribe’s local agency. Depending on location, individuals may be able to apply in one or more of the following ways:

• Online
• In person
• By mail
• By phone
• By fax
• By email

For more information on how to apply for the program, refer to the table “How to Apply for LIHEAP in Each State and Territory.”

Basic LIHEAP Eligibility

All 50 states, the District of Columbia, over 150 tribes and tribal organizations and the US Territories Guam, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands receive LIHEAP grants each year. Applicants in each location must meet the following requirements: 

• Income maximum
• Residency
• Citizenship
• Assets limit (in some locations)

Alternatively, applicants who already receive another form of government assistance may automatically qualify for LIHEAP assistance. This is known as “categorical” eligibility. 

Eligibility for LIHEAP is primarily based on household income. The income requirements vary by location based on the cost of living in the area and the size of the household.

Under federal law, applicants must have incomes at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL). However, the FPL income maximum may be higher in states where 60 percent of the median income is higher than 150 percent of the FPL. Some states and territories use 60 percent of the state’s median income to determine eligibility. 

No matter what the location uses as the maximum income level, the limit will depend on the size of the household. For a breakdown of maximum income levels by household size in each state and territory, refer to the “Income Guidelines” section of this guide.

Federal LIHEAP Contact Information

While each state, territory and tribal council oversees each individual program, there is a federal LIHEAP office that oversees the entire program. 

State and Territory LIHEAP Contact Information

Select Your State or Territory:

Tribal LIHEAP Contact Information

Currently, more than 150 tribes and tribal organizations participate in LIHEAP throughout the United States. Find a list of all participating tribes and corresponding contact information on the Office of Community Services’ Tribal Contact Page here: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/liheap-tribal-contact-listing

LIHEAP vs. Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Both LIHEAP and the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) help renters and homeowners save money on energy costs. However, they have some key differences in benefits and services. 

While LIHEAP helps low-income families pay for their heating and cooling bills, WAP helps them pay for improvements and repairs to make the home more energy-efficient. The program provides financial assistance to fix leaks, add insulation and install energy-efficient windows. Learn more about WAP and get a full list of its weatherization services in the “Weatherization Assistance Program” section of this guide.

LIHEAP Eligibility

To receive energy assistance through LIHEAP in any state, territory or tribe, you must meet the program’s eligibility requirements. Continue reading the following sections to learn more about the program rules.

Income Guidelines

Applicants must meet the income requirements in their state or territory in order to receive assistance through LIHEAP. Income limits vary by location to adjust for cost of living differences. The table below lists the maximum yearly income limits based on the size of the household for families in states and territories. 

Note: Income limits for tribal territories are set by each tribal LIHEAP agency. They must fall within the federal minimum and maximum income limits allowed by law. They cannot be set below 110 percent of the FPG. To find income limits for tribal territories, contact your tribe’s LIHEAP office. Refer to the section “Tribal LIHEAP Contact Information” for contact information.

Residency Guidelines

To receive assistance through LIHEAP, you must apply in your current state, territory or tribe. During the application process, you may need to prove your residency in order to be considered for the program. Refer to the “Documents Needed to Apply for LIHEAP” section of this guide for a list of documents that prove residency. 

Citizenship Guidelines

LIHEAP is open to U.S. citizens and qualified nonresidents. The following groups of individuals are determined to be qualified nonresidents:

• Lawful permanent residents (i.e. individuals who hold green cards)
• Refugees
• Asylees
• Individuals paroled into the U.S. for at least one year
• Individuals whose deportation has been withheld
• Individuals granted conditional entry
• Battered nonresidents, their spouses, children or parents

If you fall into any of the groups listed above, you will need to submit documents that prove your qualified status. Your household must have at least one citizen or qualified nonresident. If your household has one or more ineligible members, you will not be denied into LIHEAP based on this factor alone, as long as your household has at least one citizen or qualified nonresident.

Find a list of acceptable documents for noncitizens in the section “Documents Needed to Apply for LIHEAP.”

Asset Guidelines

Some locations consider assets above a certain level as part of your income when determining your eligibility for LIHEAP. Assets are anything of monetary value that you own or pay into, like bank accounts. Each location is responsible for determining which assets are used during the application process. The following assets may be considered:

• Cash
• Checking and savings accounts
• Stocks
• Bonds
• IRAs
• 401ks
• Additional property, like vacation homes and investment properties

Additionally, there are many types of assets that are often excluded by states, territories and tribes that use assets as part of the LIHEAP application process. The most common asset exclusions are:

• Your primary residence and property on which it stands
• One vehicle
• Households furnishings
• Jointly owned resources
• Student loans or grants
• Burial accounts

If you live in one of the following states, you are required to pass an assets test:

If you live in one of the following states, you are required to pass an assets test:

• Arkansas: Any household, regardless of size, that has at least one member who is 60 or over or a disabled member during the month of application cannot have more than $3,250 in assets. The limit is $2,250 for all other households.
• Kentucky: Households cannot have liquid resources in excess of $2,000, with the exception of households with at least one member who has a catastrophic illness. In these cases, the asset limit is up to $4,000 if assets are used for living and medical expenses.
• Missouri: Assets cannot exceed $3,000.
• Montana: Business assets cannot exceed $25,000. Liquid assets of a single-person household cannot exceed $13,277. A two-person household may not have assets valuing more than $19,924. A household with:
  • 3 members cannot have assets totaling more than $21,253. 
  • 4 members cannot have assets totaling more than $22,582.
  • 5 members cannot have assets totaling more than $23,911. 
  • 6 members cannot have assets totaling more than $25,240.
  • More than 6 members cannot have assets totaling more than $26,569.
• New York: There are asset limits for emergency HEAP benefits. To qualify for emergency benefits, households must have less than $2,500 available resources (or less than $3,750 if any household members are ages 60 and older or under 6)
• North Carolina: Asset limit of $2,250 per household
• Oklahoma: Liquid assets per household cannot exceed $2,750. Households with at least one disabled or elderly member have an asset limit of $4,250.
• Puerto Rico: Assets test required.

Categorical Eligibility

You may automatically qualify for LIHEAP assistance if you currently receive benefits from any of the following federal assistance programs:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Some needs-tested Veteran Benefits

Note that not every location uses this guideline when determining eligibility for LIHEAP. Contact your state, territory or tribal LIHEAP agency to inquire about categorical qualifications. Please refer to the section “State and Territory LIHEAP Contact Information” to find LIHEAP program contact details. 

Additional Requirements by Location

Since LIHEAP is operated individually in each location, there are some specific program requirements that certain locations may use. Please refer to the section “State and Territory LIHEAP Contact Information” to find LIHEAP program contact details.

LIHEAP Benefits

Households may receive two types of benefits through LIHEAP:

• Standard energy assistance
• Emergency energy assistance

Both types of assistance are available in all locations that offer LIHEAP. The type and total amount of benefits a household receives may depend on one or more of the following factors:

• Household size
• House type
• Energy cost
• Climate or region
• Individual bill amounts
• Energy burden
• Energy needs

Regular Energy Assistance

Households that need help paying their heating or cooling bills apply for regular energy assistance through LIHEAP. This type of benefit comes in the form of a one-time payment toward utility costs. It is paid directly to the utility company on behalf of the program participant. 

Regular energy assistance benefits will not cover the total cost of a household’s utility bills. Households that qualify for assistance will receive the one-time payment for the most pertinent utility bill. This depends on the climate and region. For example, participants living in a cold climate will receive this payment toward heating costs as the temperature drops.

Emergency Energy Assistance

Also known as crisis assistance, this type of benefit is provided to households that are experiencing an energy emergency. Applicants who are experiencing one of the following situations may qualify for emergency LIHEAP benefits:

• Received a disconnect notice from the utility company 
• Are at risk of running out of fuel
• Had their utilities shut off
• Live in an area affected by a natural disaster
• Have broken heating or cooling equipment

Each location is responsible for determining emergency benefit requirements. View the table below to learn about the specific definitions of emergency situations in each location. 

Select Your State or Territory:

• They are disconnected from service.
• They are at risk of losing service.
• They have broken or malfunctioning heating equipment.

How much energy assistance can I receive?

The total amount of LIHEAP benefits that program participants can receive is based on the following factors:

• Income
• Household size
• Energy needs
• Location

The highest benefits go to households with the highest home energy needs, which are typically those with multiple household members and lowest overall income. LIHEAP benefits are not meant to cover the total cost of a home’s energy usage. Each location has a minimum and maximum benefit amount for cooling and heating services, as well as a maximum emergency assistance amount. 

Benefit Amounts by Location

The table below lists the minimum and maximum regular benefit amounts along with the maximum emergency benefit amount for each location as of 2024.

Select Your State or Territory:

Benefit Amounts for Tribes

The table below includes information about the maximum LIHEAP benefits in Native American tribes throughout the United States. This information is current as of 2024, which is the most recent data available.

Select Your Tribe:

How will I receive LIHEAP benefits?

LIHEAP benefits are paid directly to the utility company that provides your utilities. The only exception is if you rent a home, apartment or other dwelling and your heat is included in your rent. If this applies to you, your LIHEAP benefits may be distributed to your landlord.

Unlike other public assistance programs, LIHEAP benefits are paid just once every 12 months, unless you qualify for emergency assistance.  LIHEAP benefits are distributed within 45 days of your application approval. 

Applying for LIHEAP

To receive LIHEAP benefits, you must apply in the state, U.S. territory or tribal council in which you live. Depending on where you live, you may be able to apply for benefits in the following ways:

• Online
• By phone
• In person
• By email
• By fax

Most locations have several agencies that oversee the application process, known as community action agencies (CAAs). To locate your local CAA, refer to the “State and Territory LIHEAP Contact Information” section of this guide and click on the link next to where you live. The link will provide you with a map or search tool to find your nearest LIHEAP agency. 

Application Timeframes

You must apply for LIHEAP benefits according to the application timeframe in your area. Some locations accept applications year-round, while others have deadlines for applying to the program. The table below includes information about application timeframes by location.

Information Needed to Apply for LIHEAP

During the LIHEAP application process, you will need to provide a variety of information. Although the application process varies slightly depending on where you live, you will generally need to provide the following information to your community action agency:

• Personal information
  • Full names, dates of birth and Social Security numbers (if applicable) of all members in your household.
• Income information
  • Salary and wages for all members of the household
• Utility information
  • Fuel type and bill information
• Citizenship and residency information
  • At least one member of the household must be a citizen or legal nonresident

Documents Needed to Apply for LIHEAP

In order to verify the information listed above, you may be required to provide some of the following documents during the LIHEAP application process. 

Documents Verifying Personal Information and Identity

• Driver’s license
• State-issued ID
• Student ID
• Social Security card
• Birth certificate

Documents Verifying Income

• Recent pay stubs
• Bank statements
• Tax returns
• Employer letter
• W-2 or 1099

Documents Verifying Utility Information

• Current utility bill
• Past due statement
• Notice of disconnect or imminent shut off
• Copy of rental agreement (if renting) showing that utilities are included in the monthly rent (must state the monthly rental amount and landlord contact information)

Documents Verifying Citizenship

• Birth certificate
• U.S. passport
• Social Security Card
• Permanent resident card (green card)
• Certificate of Naturalization

Documents Verifying Residency

• Copy of lease 
• Mortgage documents
• Utility bills
• Property tax documents

How to Apply for LIHEAP in Each State and Territory

How to Apply in Tribal Organizations

Members of federally recognized tribes and tribal organizations must apply for LIHEAP with their tribe’s LIHEAP coordinator. There are approximately 160 tribes that participate in the program. The following states have tribes and tribal organizations that participate in LIHEAP:

Tribal members interested in receiving LIHEAP benefits can check to see if their tribe participates in LIHEAP using the LIHEAP Tribal Map page provided by the Office of Family Services here: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/liheap-tribal-contact-listing. 

The map also provides the necessary contact information for each tribe. To learn how to apply for LIHEAP through a tribal organization, applicants must inquire with their tribe’s LIHEAP coordinator. 

After Applying for LIHEAP

After you apply for energy assistance, you are generally still required to continue paying your utility bills. Completing an application for energy assistance will not prevent service disconnections or shut offs, so it is important to make payments while waiting for application approval. Most LIHEAP applications for regular energy assistance are processed within 30 days. If you apply for emergency assistance or are in a crisis, you may hear back in as little as 18 hours. 

LIHEAP Denials and Appeals

If your LIHEAP application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The agency will then determine if you were wrongly denied energy assistance. The general steps outlined in the sections below can help you learn how to file an appeal. 

Reasons for an Application Denial

If your LIHEAP application is rejected, the Community Action Agency (CAA) will provide you with a denial notice, usually through mail or email. The notice typically includes the reason for your rejection as well as your next steps for appeal. 

You may be denied due to ineligibility, which means you do not meet your state, territory or tribe’s program criteria. For example, your income may be too high for you to qualify. 

Another common reason for denial is missing information on the application. You must be sure to provide all necessary information and documents during the application process. If your application contains errors or has missing information, you will likely be denied benefits because the CAA cannot verify your eligibility. If you are missing information or documentation, the denial notice may let you know what is missing. 

When to File an Appeal

If you believe you were wrongly denied LIHEAP benefits, file an appeal with your local agency that handled your application. The denial notice may tell you how many days you have to file and appeal. Generally, it is best to file an appeal as soon as you can. 

How to File an Appeal

Your denial notice will usually explain the appeals process. Since each state, territory and participating tribal agency operates its own LIHEAP, the process for filing an appeal varies slightly. However, there is a general appeal process that agencies follow when issuing an application denial.

1. Find the reason for denial. Your denial letter will state the reason you did not qualify for LIHEAP.

2. Respond to the notice. Follow instructions to file a first appeal. Depending on the reason for your application denial, you may need to provide additional documents to prove your eligibility. Refer to the “Documents Needed to Apply for LIHEAP” for a list of documents you need to verify your eligibility during the application process.

3. Receive a second notice of determination. If your application is denied again and you are unsatisfied with the decision, proceed to step 4.

4. Request a fair hearing with the local agency. The denial letter provides instructions for requesting a hearing, during which you make your case for why you believe you were wrongly denied benefits. Be sure to bring any evidence that can help your case.

5. Receive a final decision. The state, territory or tribal LIHEAP department will send you a written decision after the hearing. If your appeal is not granted, and you still do not qualify for benefits, you can apply for the program at a later time if your situation changes. 

To start your appeal, contact your local agency and notify them of your desire to appeal. Refer to the “State and Territory LIHEAP Contact Information” section of this guide for local contact information. 

Fair Hearings

A hearing is a standard part of the appeal process that allows you to present evidence for your case. Your local agency is required to assist in scheduling the hearing and contacting the overhead department. 

Depending on where you live, the hearing can take place in person or over the phone. It will be conducted by an unbiased third party. Your local CAA will work with you to determine a reasonable date, time and location for the hearing. Find your nearest agency’s contact information in the  “State and Territory LIHEAP Contact Information” section of this guide.

If you cannot attend the hearing or prefer not to, you may be allowed to grant the following individuals authorization to attend the hearing on your behalf:

• A relative
• An authorized representative
• A friend
• A legal counselor

After your hearing, the state, territory or tribal LIHEAP department will review your case and notify you of their decision via a written final decision. If the decision is not overturned and you are denied benefits, you may be eligible for a second appeal to a higher authority. The written final decision will include instructions for this process if you qualify. 

If you do not agree with how your local agency or state, territory or tribal department handled your case, or if you suspect fraud, contact the federal LIHEAP office. Find federal LIHEAP contact information in the “What is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?” section of this guide. 

Tips for Making Your Home More Energy Efficient

Improving your home’s energy efficiency can be a great way to reduce energy bills and make the most of LIHEAP benefits. By taking a few steps to conserve energy, you may be able to lower your utility costs and create a more comfortable living environment year-round. Here are some practical tips to help you get started:

Seal Leaks and Insulate Properly

One of the most effective ways to make your home more energy-efficient is by sealing leaks and improving insulation. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and any openings where pipes or cables enter your home. You can use weather stripping or caulk to seal these gaps. 

Additionally, ensure your home is well-insulated, especially in the attic, walls, and floors. Proper insulation keeps the warm air in during the winter and the cool air in during the summer, reducing the need for constant heating or cooling.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

If you have old, inefficient appliances, they could be contributing significantly to your energy costs. Consider upgrading to energy-efficient models that carry the ENERGY STAR® label. These appliances typically use less electricity and water, helping you save money in the long run. Common appliances to consider upgrading include refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, and air conditioning units.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can be a game-changer for energy efficiency. It allows you to set your heating and cooling systems to run less frequently when you’re not home or while you sleep. By adjusting the temperature by just a few degrees, you can often save a good amount on your energy bills. Some modern thermostats can even learn your schedule and adjust automatically, optimizing energy usage without sacrificing comfort.

Switch to LED Lighting

Lighting accounts for a significant portion of any home’s energy use. Replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs can serve as a simple and cost-effective way to reduce energy consumption. On average, LEDs use up to 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs, meaning you can expect to spend less on replacements and energy over time.

Maintain Your Heating and Cooling Systems

Regular maintenance of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can keep them running efficiently. Change filters regularly, have your system inspected annually by a professional, and keep vents and ducts clean. An efficient HVAC system typically uses less energy to keep your home comfortable, which can lead to significant savings on your utility bills.

Reduce Water Heating Costs

Water heating is another major energy expense. Lowering the thermostat on your water heater to 120°F can potentially reduce your energy consumption without sacrificing comfort. Additionally, consider insulating your water heater and the first few feet of hot water pipes to minimize heat loss. Installing low-flow showerheads and faucets can also help reduce the amount of hot water you use, leading to further energy savings.

Use Energy Wisely

Finally, adopting energy-conscious habits can make a big difference. Turn off lights, appliances, and electronics when they’re not in use. Unplug chargers and devices that aren’t in use, as they can draw power even when not active. Washing clothes in cold water, air-drying laundry, and running full loads in your dishwasher can also help reduce energy consumption.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a free service available to income-eligible families that aims to reduce overall energy costs through home improvements. By increasing the energy efficiency of their homes, beneficiaries can lower their heating and cooling costs. These upgrades also contribute to added safety and improved health of those living in the home. 

What services qualify as weatherization?

Weatherization refers to any repairs, upgrades or modifications that help improve a home’s energy efficiency. The following services are provided through WAP and fall under the term “weatherization”:

Local professionals who are partnered with WAP visit the homes of program participants to perform a thorough home analysis, also known as an energy audit. During the audit, the professionals determine which of the above weatherization services are necessary to improve energy efficiency. If new equipment or appliances are installed, the professionals will teach the homeowners how to operate them and ensure they understand all safety procedures.

The average cost of weatherization services per home is $4,695. Homeowners who qualify for the program receive these services at no cost to them, as the program is federally funded. 

Benefits of Weatherization

WAP-approved households receive many benefits from participation in the program:

• Lower utility bills. Weatherization reduces the total amount of energy that a home uses, resulting in lower energy costs.
• Extended life of appliances. HVAC units do not work as hard when the home is properly sealed, which means they may last longer. 
• Improved quality of life. Families living in weatherized homes can see improvements in air quality, which helps those with respiratory complications (like asthma) breathe easier.
• Lower environmental impact. Weatherized homes make less of an impact on their surrounding environments, emitting less greenhouse gases and relying on renewable sources of energy.

WAP Eligibility 

Like LIHEAP, eligibility for WAP is primarily based on income. The program is open to families with incomes at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines (FPL). Some states instead use 60 percent of the state’s median annual income. Priority is given to:

• Elderly residents 60 years of age or older
• Residents with disabilities
• Households with young children

If you participate in the following forms of public assistance, you may automatically qualify for WAP:

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI or disability benefits)

WAP applicants may have their home weatherized whether they rent or own the home. If applicants rent an apartment in a multi-family building, the building itself may have to meet certain eligibility criteria before an individual unit can receive WAP services. WAP may help facilitate communication between you, your neighbors and your landlord or building owner about the need for weatherization. 

How to Apply to WAP

To receive weatherization services through WAP, you must apply with your state, territory or tribal agency. Like LIHEAP, WAP is administered at the local level. However, there is a standard application process that all weatherization administrators implement when determining eligibility for the program. 

1. Determine your eligibility. If your income is at or below 60 percent of the state’s median annual income, you may qualify for benefits. The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) compiled a chart containing the most recent median annual household incomes in all 50 states. Find your state, then find your household size to calculate 60% of your state’s median annual income. Access the chart here: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ocs/COMM_LIHWAP_Att1SMITable_FY2023.pdf

2. Find your local weatherization provider. Each state, territory and tribal organization has a list of approved weatherization providers. You can find your area provider’s contact information in the next section, “WAP Contact Information by Location.”

3. Apply with your provider. In most cases, you must contact your provider to apply directly with them. You must provide proof of income from the prior year, such as:
   • Pay stubs
   • Bank statements
   • W-2
   • Social Security payments

WAP Contact Information by Location

The table below provides contact information for the weatherization administrator in each state and territory. Use the link provided in the “Website” column to find contact information for providers in your specific county, city or town to apply to WAP or inquire about program specifications.

Select Your State or Territory:

Other Government Assistance Programs

In addition to energy assistance, the federal government provides several other resources to families and individuals who need food or financial assistance. To qualify for these programs, applicants must meet certain income requirements. Individuals who qualify for LIHEAP may also qualify for the following assistance programs.

Food Benefits

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/state-directory 

Cash Benefits

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF):
  https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ofa/programs/tanf

Healthcare

• Medicaid:
  https://www.medicaid.gov/

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I qualify for LIHEAP?

LIHEAP is a federal assistance program that is controlled locally by each state, territory and tribal organization. Each of these departments has different eligibility criteria and uses a combination of the following factors to determine who qualifies for assistance:

• Income
• Household size
• Energy needs/costs

To see if you qualify for LIHEAP benefits, you must apply with your state, territory or tribal LIHEAP office. Refer to the “What is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?” section to find contact information for states, territories and tribes.

2. What services does LIHEAP provide?

LIHEAP helps pay a portion of your energy bills. The program is run differently in each state, territory and tribe. Depending on where you live, you can receive:

• Heating and/or cooling assistance.
• Emergency assistance to avoid utility disconnections.
• Energy efficiency improvements through weatherization services, also known as the Weatherization Assistance Program.

3. How do I apply for LIHEAP?

Since LIHEAP is administered by each state, territory and tribe, the application process varies based on where you live. Some locations offer online application options while others do not. To learn how to apply for LIHEAP in each state, territory or tribe, refer to the “Applying for LIHEAP” section of this guide.

4. Does LIHEAP help pay for water or sewer bills?

No. You can only use LIHEAP funds to help pay for your heating or cooling bills. The only exception to this is if your air conditioner uses water, such as in an evaporative cooler.  

5. Will my entire energy bill be covered by LIHEAP?

Typically, LIHEAP only pays for a portion of your energy costs. In most locations, LIHEAP will cover your primary utility bill. The total amount of utility assistance you receive depends on where you live, the size of your household, how much income you have and your energy costs.

6. Can I apply directly with the federal government?

No. To apply for LIHEAP, you must go through your state, territory or tribal LIHEAP department. The federal government does not directly provide you with utility assistance. Instead, it provides funding to these locations. You can find a list of LIHEAP contact information in the “What is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?” section of this guide. If you need help finding energy assistance in your area, you can call the National Energy Assistance Referral Hotline at:

7. If I rent my home, can I apply for LIHEAP?

Yes. Renters are permitted to apply for and receive utility assistance, even if the cost of their utilities is factored into the monthly cost of rent. 

8. If I live in subsidized or public housing, can I apply for LIHEAP?

Depending on where you live, you may be ineligible for LIHEAP benefits if you live in subsidized housing. Contact your local LIHEAP office to see if they accept LIHEAP applications from applicants residing in public or subsidized housing. Refer to the “What is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?” section of this guide to find contact information for your nearest LIHEAP office. 

9. My LIHEAP application was denied. What next?

If you are denied LIHEAP benefits, your state, territory or tribal LIHEAP department will notify you via a denial notice. If you feel that the denial is incorrect and you believe you qualify for benefits, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process varies depending on where you live, but most locations require a fair hearing. The hearing is your chance to provide evidence for why you believe you qualify for LIHEAP. For more information about appealing a LIHEAP denial, refer to the “LIHEAP Denials and Appeals” section of this guide.

10.  How do I qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)?

Like LIHEAP, the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is controlled locally by each state and territory. To be eligible for WAP, you must meet the eligibility criteria in your area, which is primarily based on income. You may qualify if your household income falls at or below 60 percent of your state or territory’s median annual income.