There’s a program that may help eligible households with energy bills. Here’s how it works — and how to check the requirements.
LIHEAP May Help With
What’s available and how much can vary by state, household size, and energy costs.
Benefit
Energy bill assistance
Qualification
Income or eligible program
How You Get It
Your state or local agency
What Is This Program?
LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is a federal program that helps eligible households manage the cost of home energy. It’s funded federally but run locally — each state, territory, or tribal agency sets its own application process and decides how funds are distributed.
Who May Qualify?
Eligibility is generally based on household income or participation in certain assistance programs.
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Income: typically at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or 60% of your state’s median income — whichever is higher.
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SNAP — in many states, participation may qualify you automatically
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SSI — Supplemental Security Income
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TANF — Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
Exact criteria and automatic-qualification rules are set by each state, so they can vary depending on where you live.
Important Distinction
LIHEAP is assistance, not a loan — there’s nothing to repay. It’s usually applied as a credit toward your energy bill or paid to your provider on your behalf, not handed to you as cash.
How Does It Generally Work?
The process can be understood in four steps.
1
Check your eligibility
See whether your income or program participation may meet your state’s LIHEAP requirements.
2
Find your local agency
LIHEAP is administered by state, territory, or tribal agencies — not a single national office.
3
Apply and provide documentation
You may need to confirm income or program participation, depending on your state’s process.
4
Receive assistance
If approved, help is applied toward your energy costs — the exact amount and timing depend on your state and circumstances.
Worth Knowing
Many states open their regular heating-season application window in the fall, though separate crisis or cooling assistance may be available at other times. Funding is limited each year, so it’s worth checking sooner rather than later.
Quick Questions
Is this a loan?
No. LIHEAP is assistance, not a loan — there’s nothing to repay.
Does it work the same in every state?
No. Each state, territory, or tribal agency sets its own rules, deadlines, and how funds are distributed.
Can it help in an emergency, like a shut-off notice?
Many states offer a separate crisis assistance option for urgent situations — availability depends on your state.
What if I’m not sure I qualify?
It’s still worth checking. The next page explains eligibility and how to find your state’s program in more detail.
Ready to Check the Requirements?
See the eligibility details, what may be required, and how to find your state’s official program.
SEE HOW TO APPLY →
This page is independently published for informational purposes. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated on behalf of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Administration for Children and Families, or any government agency.
