LIHEAP utility payments: How to get help staying cool this summer in DC
Misty Severi
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Washington, D.C., residents who struggle to keep their homes cool during the summer can get help with high utility prices by applying for their state’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
The Department of Energy and Environment oversees the federally funded program, which aims to reduce costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, and minor energy-related home repairs for households with low incomes. It also helps eligible people across the country with fuel and cooling costs.
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Each state has different deadlines for applying for the assistance, but Washington, D.C., residents can apply online or through the mail until Sept. 30. Applicants must fill out the online application and supply a copy of the following:
Their service disconnection notice or a letter from the utility company that states the service has been disconnected (for emergency relief only) Most recent utility bills A government-issued photo ID Proof of income for everyone in your home who receives income Social Security cards for everyone in the home
Those applying through the mail must fill out and mail this application and send a copy of the documents listed above to:
Attn: Utility Affordability Administration
1200 First Street NE, 5th Floor
Washington DC, 20002.
Eligible households can receive energy bill assistance of between $250 and $1,800 as a one-time benefit. The amount in the benefit is based on household size, total household income, heating source, and type of dwelling.
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Households of one only qualify for the benefit if the person makes less than $47,438 during fiscal 2023, which runs from Oct. 1, 2022, through Sept. 30, 2023. Households of four can make a maximum of $91,225 for fiscal 2023, and households of eight can make up to $125,890 in fiscal 2023.
District residents could also qualify for additional assistance under the Utility Discount Programs, which would give residents reduced utility rates. Whether residents qualify for the reduced rates depends on their household income. For a single-person household, the applicant cannot make more than $79,700 during fiscal 2023, while a household of four cannot make more than $113,850.