Paying for electricity, heating, or cooling can be difficult when household income is limited. Fortunately, several programs may help eligible households reduce energy costs, pay certain utility bills, or make their homes more energy efficient.
The main federal program is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Depending on where you live and your circumstances, assistance may also be available through weatherization programs, state agencies, utility companies, community organizations, and other local programs.
Who May Qualify for Energy Assistance?
Eligibility depends on the program, your household income, where you live, household size, and other circumstances.
Low-income households may receive priority or qualify for assistance if they include:
- Older adults
- Children
- People with disabilities
- Households with high energy costs
- Families experiencing financial hardship
- People receiving certain public benefits
- Households facing an energy-related emergency
LIHEAP requirements vary by state and territory, so meeting an income guideline does not automatically guarantee assistance.
Check What You May Qualify For
You do not have to figure out every program on your own. OpenGrants Network provides free eligibility checking and program matching to help you identify assistance opportunities that may fit your situation.
- ✓ Free eligibility check
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Programs vary based on eligibility, location, household circumstances, and available funding.
Types of Energy Assistance Available
LIHEAP
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program can help eligible households with heating and cooling costs. Depending on the state, assistance may also be available for certain electricity expenses or energy emergencies.
LIHEAP is administered through state, territory, tribal, and local agencies, so application procedures and eligibility requirements differ.
Weatherization Assistance
The Weatherization Assistance Program helps eligible low-income households make energy-saving improvements to their homes.
Instead of simply paying an energy bill, weatherization assistance can address problems that contribute to high energy costs, such as inefficient insulation and other energy-efficiency issues.
Both homeowners and renters may be able to apply, depending on program rules.
State and Local Energy Programs
States and local governments may offer additional energy assistance. Programs can include emergency utility assistance, payment support, energy-efficiency services, or referrals to community organizations.
Because these programs vary by location, it is important to check the programs available in your state or community.
Utility Company Assistance
Some utility companies offer payment arrangements, hardship programs, discounts, or other assistance for customers experiencing financial difficulty.
If you are worried about disconnection, contact your utility provider as early as possible and ask what assistance or payment options are available.
How Energy Assistance Programs Typically Work
- Check your eligibility. Income, household size, location, and other circumstances may be considered.
- Identify available programs. LIHEAP, weatherization, state programs, utility assistance, and local resources may have different requirements.
- Gather documentation. You may need proof of income, household information, identification, and a recent utility bill.
- Submit an application. Applications may be handled online, by phone, by mail, or through a local agency.
- Wait for the eligibility decision. Processing times and available funding vary.
- Ask about emergency assistance if necessary. Some programs have provisions for households facing an energy crisis.