What LIHEAP Covers

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy information Program) is a federal program that helps pay heating and cooling bills for households with low income. The program sends money directly to your utility company or heating supplier — you do not pay the bill yourself and then get reimbursed.

LIHEAP covers the cost of heating your home in winter and cooling it in summer. This includes natural gas, electricity, oil, propane, and wood. Some states also use LIHEAP money to help with weatherization — things like insulation, caulking, and furnace repairs that make your home use less energy.

The program does not cover water bills, trash collection, or other utility charges. It also does not pay deposits or reconnection fees if your service has been shut off, though some states have separate programs for that.

Key Takeaways

  • LIHEAP pays your heating or cooling bill by sending money directly to your utility company, not to you.
  • Your household income must fall below a certain level, which varies by state and family size.
  • You must own or rent your home and pay your own utility bills to be considered.
  • Each state runs its own LIHEAP program with different income limits, payment amounts, and process important date.
  • The program typically opens in fall for heating season and may reopen in spring for cooling season.

Income Limits and Household Size

LIHEAP has income limits that change each year and differ by state. Your household income must be at or below a certain percentage of your state's median income — usually between 130% and 200% of the federal poverty line, depending on where you live.

Income limits also depend on how many people live in your home. A single person has a lower limit than a family of four. When you contact your state program, they will tell you the exact number for your situation. Income includes wages, Social Security, unemployment benefits, child support, and other regular money coming in.

Some states count assets (money in the bank, vehicles) and some do not. A few states have asset limits, meaning you cannot have more than a certain amount of savings. Ask your state program whether assets matter in your case.

Who Can Receive LIHEAP

You must be a U.S. citizen or may have access to immigrant to receive LIHEAP. You must also own or rent your home and pay your own utility bills — if your landlord includes heat in your rent, you cannot get LIHEAP for that bill.

Your home must be your primary residence, meaning you live there most of the year. If you own a second home or vacation property, you cannot use LIHEAP for those.

Some households are prioritized over others when money runs low. Most states prioritize elderly people (usually 60 and older), people with disabilities, and families with young children. A few states also prioritize households where someone has a serious health condition made worse by heat or cold.

How Much Money LIHEAP Provides

LIHEAP does not pay your entire bill. The amount varies widely by state and depends on your income, household size, and the cost of energy where you live. Some states pay an average of $400 to $600 per household per year; others pay more or less.

The program typically pays once per heating season (October through March) and once per cooling season (May through September), though some states make one payment per year. A few states allow a second payment if your first payment did not cover your bill and you are still behind.

LIHEAP money goes to your utility company, not to you. The company receives the payment and credits it to your account. If you owe money from a previous bill, the utility may explore the LIHEAP payment to that debt first before crediting your current bill.

When and How to Contact Your State Program

Each state runs LIHEAP differently, so you must contact your state program directly. Most states open their process period in October for heating season. Some close the process in March or April; others stay open through May or June. A few states reopen in May or June for cooling season.

To find your state program, search online for "LIHEAP [your state name]" or call 211 (a free helpline that connects you to local programs). You can also visit the National Energy information Referral (NEAR) website, which has links to every state program.

Most states let you explore by phone, mail, or in person. Some have online applications. When you call, have your Social Security number, proof of income (recent pay stubs or tax return), and your utility bill ready. The process usually takes a few minutes on the phone.

Documents You Will Need

Requirements vary by state, but most ask for proof of income, proof of residency, and proof that you pay the utility bill. Proof of income can be a recent pay stub, tax return, Social Security statement, or a letter from your employer. If you are unemployed, bring a letter from your state unemployment office.

Proof of residency is usually your utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement. Proof that you pay the utility bill is your bill itself — it must show your name and address. If you rent and your landlord pays the utility, you cannot get LIHEAP for that bill.

Some states also ask for citizenship or immigration status proof, such as a birth certificate, passport, or green card. A few states ask for a list of all household members and their ages. Call your state program before you explore to confirm what they need.

What Happens After You explore

After you explore, your state program reviews your income and household information. This usually takes two to four weeks, though it can take longer if the program is busy or if they need more information from you.

If you are found to be within the income limits, the program sends the payment directly to your utility company. You will receive a letter or email telling you the payment has been made. Your utility bill should show the credit within one to two billing cycles.

If you are denied, the program will tell you why — usually because your income is too high or you do not meet residency requirements. You can ask for a hearing to appeal the decision in most states.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get LIHEAP if my landlord pays for heat?

No. LIHEAP only covers bills you pay yourself. If your lease includes heat and your landlord pays the utility bill, you cannot receive LIHEAP for heating. You can only use LIHEAP for utilities you are responsible for paying.

What if I already got LIHEAP once — can I get it again?

Yes. Most states allow you to receive LIHEAP once per heating season and once per cooling season each year. You must reapply each year because income and household circumstances change. Some states let you explore again if your first payment did not cover your bill and you fell behind again.

Does getting LIHEAP affect my other benefits?

LIHEAP is not counted as income for most other programs like SNAP or Medicaid. However, a few states may count it differently. Contact your state program or your local benefits office to confirm how it affects your specific situation.

What if I cannot reach my state program by phone?

Call 211 or visit the NEAR website to find your state program's contact information. Many states have multiple local offices, so you may be able to reach a different location. Some programs also accept applications by mail or online if the phone lines are busy.

Can I get LIHEAP if I own my home but do not have a mortgage?

Yes. You do not need a mortgage to receive LIHEAP. You only need to own or rent your home and pay your own utility bills. Homeowners without mortgages are often prioritized because they typically have lower incomes.