Understanding the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP Energy Assistance

There are numerous bill assistance programs available to help qualifying Americans. One popular program is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This is a program that is designed to help low income families be able to afford home energy services and pay utility bills. You may be eligible to receive assistance if you fall within the LIHEAP income guidelines. One of their goals is to reduce the risk associated with unsafe cooling and heating practices.

This is a federally funded program; however, the coverage and budget are determined by the state that you live in.

Typically, LIHEAP energy assistance can help by providing:

  • Cooling and heating energy costs.
  • Utility bill assistance for low income families.
  • Emergency support during tough times like utilities getting turned off.

While every state is different, a lot of states also help with energy-related home repairs as well as weatherization. They offer these assistance options as well because they also want to try to reduce the ongoing costs of energy per household.

Funds provided through LIHEAP are not usually used for sewer and water bills. However, you may see exceptions if water is used for an air conditioner.

How Do You Qualify for LIHEAP?

Many people interested in LIHEAP may not realize that they may automatically qualify if they already qualify for other programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). However, every state is different so you will want to verify that you qualify!

LIHEAP - Apply for Energy Assistance Online

If you are interested in applying for LIHEAP, then you will want to contact your local LIHEAP office. However, your state may also offer the opportunity to apply for energy assistance online as well.