LIHEAP utility payments: Everything to know about applying for help paying your bills
Brady Knox
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With high inflation and an uncertain economy, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, can provide much-needed relief.
At first glance, the program can seem hard to navigate, but a closer analysis will show there’s nothing to fear.
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Here’s everything you need to know about LIHEAP.
What is LIHEAP?
LIHEAP is a federal assistance program that helps financially hard-pressed citizens pay their utility bills.
The program assists impoverished households with home energy bills, energy crises, and minor energy-related home repairs, also known as weatherization, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
Can LIHEAP pay all my bills?
No, LIHEAP payments apply only to heating and cooling costs. Other household costs, such as water or sewage bills, are not covered by the payments.
Is there one uniform LIHEAP?
No, LIHEAPs are run by states, tribes, or territories. The federal government gives out a LIHEAP funding allotment annually, and the states, tribes, and territories allocate it as they see appropriate.
Am I guaranteed assistance if I qualify for LIHEAP?
No. On average, LIHEAP benefits only reach about 20% of those eligible. Once funds run out, no more may be used for the rest of the year until a new package is authorized by Congress.
Qualifications vary, as the states, territories, and tribes which receive the funds decide who is eligible. Therefore, eligibility will range widely depending on where one lives.
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Am I eligible for LIHEAP?
To find out if you’re eligible, contact your local LIHEAP office. However, most granters automatically qualify those who are recipients of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Supplemental Security Income, or some veterans benefits.