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Updated October 11, 2026 · 6-minute read

How to apply for LIHEAP

LIHEAP is a free government program that helps pay heating and cooling bills. Here's how to apply, step by step.

The short version

  1. Call 1-866-674-6327 (free) and ask where to apply for LIHEAP in your area. You can also dial 211.
  2. Gather your ID, proof of income, and a recent energy bill.
  3. Apply as soon as your state opens. Money is limited and can run out.
  4. If you have a shutoff notice or are out of fuel, say so. Ask for crisis help.

What LIHEAP pays for

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is paid for by the federal government and run by each state. Depending on where you live, it can help with:

  • Heating bills (gas, electric, oil, propane, wood)
  • Cooling bills in hot weather
  • Emergency (crisis) help when you have a shutoff notice or are out of fuel
  • In some states, electric bills in general

The money usually goes straight to your utility or fuel company, not to you. A related program, the Weatherization Assistance Program, can pay for home repairs that cut your energy bills, like insulation or sealing drafts.

Who qualifies

It's based on income and household size, and each state sets its own limits. In many states, if someone in your home already gets SNAP (food stamps), SSI or TANF, that can make you eligible.

Not sure? Apply anyway. The office will tell you. Renters can qualify too, even if heat is included in your rent in some states.

Step by step

  1. Find your local office.Call the National Energy Assistance Referral line at 1-866-674-6327, or email energyassistance@ncat.org with your city, county and state. You can also use the LIHEAP search tool or dial 211.
  2. Ask how to apply.Some states let you apply online. Others want a paper form or an in-person visit. Ask when the season opens and whether there's a waiting list.
  3. Gather your papers.Most offices ask for:
    • Photo ID for the person applying
    • Social Security numbers for people in the home (some states)
    • Proof of income for everyone in the home, often the last 30 days (pay stubs, benefit letters)
    • Your most recent heating and electric bills
    • Your lease or proof of address
    • Any shutoff notice
  4. Apply early.Opening dates are different in every state. Pennsylvania's 2026–27 season opens November 2, 2026, for example. Each year's money depends on what Congress approves, and it can run out before winter ends.
  5. Keep calling your utility.While you wait, tell your utility you've applied for LIHEAP and ask them to hold off on a shutoff or set up a payment plan. Many will.

Shutoff notice or out of fuel?

Ask for crisis assistance. It's part of LIHEAP and is often handled much faster than regular applications. Then read our guide: Got a shutoff notice? What to do today.

What to say when you call

"Hi, I need help paying my heating bill. I'd like to apply for LIHEAP. Can you tell me how to apply, what papers I need, and whether there's crisis help? I have a shutoff notice dated ____."

Watch out for scams

LIHEAP is free. Nobody legitimate will charge you to apply or "guarantee" approval. Never pay a fee, and only give personal information to the official office you found through 211, the number above, or your state's .gov website. Report scams at reportfraud.ftc.gov.

More help in your state

See programs and phone numbers for California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, or check what else you can lower.

Want it all on paper?

The Hard Month Kit has a bill priority worksheet, a 30-day cash plan, call scripts, a call log and a hardship letter you can print and fill in.

The Hard Month Kit · $9Free Budget Starter

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Sources

Checked October 11, 2026. Programs change their rules. Confirm with the program before you rely on a date or amount. Found something wrong? Email help@billhelpnow.com.