Housing is by far the largest expense almost everyone faces. Not just rent or mortgage, either — you also need to pay for utilities.
One of the most financially troublesome utilities for many living paycheck-to-paycheck (or close to it) is heating and cooling. Both are necessary (especially heating in areas with cold winters) yet add up fast.
Fortunately, if you’re struggling to cover your heating or cooling bill every month, the federal government offers a program called the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Learn more about LIHEAP below.
What is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program?
LIHEAP is a federal social services program established in 1981 that provides eligible low-income households assistance with covering their heating and cooling costs. It’s managed by the US Department of Health and Human Services.
In particular, LIHEAP assists with energy costs, offers bill payment assistance, and energy crisis assistance. Additionally, LIHEAP can help you weatherize your home and make energy-related home repairs, such as insulation or HVAC repairs.
Who is Eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program?
Per the LIHEAP website, you are eligible if you need financial assistance to cover your home’s energy costs.
That isn’t very specific, but Benefits.gov provides a table listing maximum pre-tax income levels for eligibility. If you fall at or below that income level given a certain household size, you are likely qualified for the program.
| Household Size | Maximum Yearly Income |
| 1 | $19,140 |
| 2 | $25,860 |
| 3 | $32,850 |
| 4 | $39,390 |
| 5 | $46,020 |
| 6 | $52,740 |
| 7 | $59,460 |
| 8 | $66,180 |
If your household has more than 8 people, add $6,720 to the maximum yearly income per additional person.
Also, if you or a family member receives benefits from certain programs such as SNAP, SSI, TANF, you might be automatically eligible for LIHEAP.
To apply for LIHEAP, you can contact your state’s LIHEAP office or call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) program at 1-866-674-6327.
What About State Programs?
Now, LIHEAP is a block grant given to states, meaning states may adjust how they operate their program based on various factors (as long as they fall within federally-mandated parameters, of course).
That said, some states offer energy assistance in other ways. For example, Michigan uses some of its LIHEAP funds to provide taxpayers Michigan’s Home Heating Credit (HHC). Michigan taxpayers who owned or rented their home in a tax year, paid for energy, and met other eligibility requirements can claim this credit to cover those energy costs.
Other states likely have their own tax credits (if they have an income tax) and other programs as well. You can find more information through the Department of Health and Human Services.
