LIHEAP
Help paying heating and cooling bills.
About This Program
LIHEAP is a federal block grant that states use to help low-income households pay heating and cooling bills. Because it is block-granted, every detail — benefit amounts, income limits, application windows, and which utilities are covered — varies by state and sometimes by the local community action agency administering the program in your area. There are typically two types of LIHEAP assistance: regular (or seasonal) benefits paid directly to your utility company once or twice a year, and crisis assistance for households facing disconnection or a heating/cooling emergency. Crisis assistance is available to households that may not qualify for regular LIHEAP but face an acute emergency — a utility shutoff notice, a broken heating system, or an extremely high bill. Benefit amounts for regular LIHEAP range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 depending on heating costs, income, and household size. Funding is limited and applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis in most states. The application window often opens in the fall before heating season and closes when funds run out — sometimes within weeks. Applying early is critical. Many households that waited for their bill to become unmanageable before applying found that funds were already exhausted. You apply through your local community action agency, tribal energy assistance program, or state social services office. Income eligibility is generally at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, though some states set limits higher. Households receiving SNAP or SSI often have expedited or categorical eligibility.
Eligibility Requirements
| Income | At or below 150% FPL |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does LIHEAP pay?
LIHEAP benefit amounts vary widely by state and available funding — typically $200 to $1,500 per year for heating assistance. Some states provide a one-time payment; others provide multiple smaller payments. Crisis assistance (for shutoff emergencies) is typically the same amount but processed much faster.
Does LIHEAP pay my whole heating bill?
LIHEAP is usually a partial benefit — it helps with heating costs but does not cover the entire bill. It is typically applied as a credit to your utility account. Think of it as a supplement to your own payment, not a full replacement. Using LIHEAP with a utility company's own low-income rate program maximizes savings.
What if I rent and heat is included in my rent?
You may still qualify for LIHEAP. Your local LIHEAP agency can provide a benefit paid directly to your landlord as a rent reduction, or confirm that your rent reflects actual utility costs. Ask specifically about the "renter with included utilities" policy when you apply.
Can I get LIHEAP for cooling (air conditioning)?
Many states have a separate summer LIHEAP component for cooling costs. Availability, funding levels, and eligibility requirements vary by state. Cooling assistance is typically available in summer months (May-August). Contact your local Community Action Agency to ask about cooling assistance in your state.
I was denied LIHEAP. What can I do?
LIHEAP denials can be appealed through your state's fair hearing process. You can also contact a different local LIHEAP vendor (some states have multiple agencies per county). If you are facing an imminent shutoff, explicitly ask about the crisis/emergency LIHEAP component — it has different eligibility rules and faster processing.
Related Programs
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Free home energy upgrades to lower heating and cooling costs.
SNAP (Food Stamps)
Monthly grocery benefits for low-income households.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
Monthly payments for low-income disabled adults and seniors.
Emergency Rental Assistance
Emergency funds to help cover rent and utility arrears.
Eligibility requirements may have changed. Verify at the official source before applying.
Benefit Amount
Varies by state — typically $200-$1,000/year
Application Guide
How to Apply for LIHEAP Energy Assistance →Category
Energy & BillsLast reviewed: May 2025