At a glance
- Who it's for
- Households with low income that pay for heating or cooling, directly or through rent. Many states put older adults, people with disabilities and families with young children first.
- What you get
- Help paying your energy bill, usually sent straight to your utility company. The amount depends on your state, income, household size and energy costs.
- How long it takes
- It depends on your state. In an energy emergency, federal law says help must come within 48 hours of applying, or 18 hours if a life is at risk.
- Where to apply
- With your state or local LIHEAP office, often a community action agency. Many states take applications online, by mail or in person.
Got a shutoff notice? Call your local LIHEAP office and your utility company right away. Ask about crisis help and a payment plan. If you are in danger, call 9-1-1.
What LIHEAP can help with
- Heating bills: gas, electric, oil, propane or wood
- Cooling bills, in states that offer cooling help
- Energy emergencies, such as a shutoff notice or running out of fuel
- Weatherization and repairs that lower your bills, in some states
Who can get LIHEAP
Federal rules let states help households with income up to 150% of the federal poverty level, or 60% of the state's median income if that is higher. Each state sets its own limit, so yours may be lower or higher than this guide.
| People in your household | 150% of the 2026 poverty level (yearly) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $23,940 |
| 2 | $32,460 |
| 3 | $40,980 |
| 4 | $49,500 |
For the 48 states and Washington, DC. Alaska and Hawaii are higher. In some states, getting SNAP, SSI or TANF means you meet the income rule automatically.
Apply early. Congress had not yet approved LIHEAP money for the federal year that starts October 1, 2026 when we checked on September 29, 2026. States may open later or have less to give, and funds can run out, so apply as soon as your state opens.
What to bring
- Photo ID for the adults in your household
- Social Security numbers for household members, if your state asks for them
- Proof of income for everyone in the household: pay stubs, benefit letters or a tax return
- Your most recent energy bill, and any shutoff notice
- Your lease or landlord's contact details, if heat is included in your rent
Make a printable LIHEAP checklist
How to apply, step by step
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Find your local office
Use the LIHEAP office finder (opens in a new tab) from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or call 2-1-1 and ask for energy bill help.
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Check when your state takes applications
Many states open heating help in the fall and cooling help in the summer. Emergency help is often available all year. Ask your office for the dates.
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Apply
Depending on your state, you can apply online, in person, by mail or by phone. Fill in every part and include copies of your papers.
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Watch for the decision
Most payments go straight to your utility or fuel company, and you see a credit on your bill. If you are turned down, ask how to appeal.
Other help with energy bills
- Your utility company. Ask about low-income rates, payment plans and any assistance funds they run.
- Weatherization. The Weatherization Assistance Program (opens in a new tab) makes free energy-saving repairs for eligible homes.
- Local charities and community groups. Call 2-1-1 to find them.
Common questions
Can I get help if I rent?
Often, yes. If you pay your own energy bill, you apply like anyone else. If heat is included in your rent, some states can still help, so ask your local office.
How much will I get?
It depends on your state, your income, your household size and your energy costs. Your local office can tell you how it works there.
Can I get help more than once?
Many states give one regular payment per season and extra help in an emergency. The rules differ by state.
Figures on this page were checked on September 29, 2026 against the official sources below. Rules change, and your state makes the final decision.