You may be eligible to receive cash grants and additional benefits to help you with your heating bill.
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (“LIHEAP”) provides financial assistance to low income households who are having trouble with their energy bills. It is a federal program administered by the PA Department of Public Welfare (“DPW”). LIHEAP is available as of November 3, 2014 and is expected to close April 3, 2015, depending on availability of funds.
To qualify for LIHEAP, annual household incomes must not exceed 150% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines, which is $17,505 for a household of one or $23,595 for a household of two. Homeowners and tenants responsible for paying for their heat are eligible to apply. Households may qualify for the following types of assistance under LIHEAP:
The LIHEAP Cash grant assists eligible individuals with the payment of their heating bill. Eligible households may receive grants ranging from $100 to $1,000, depending on factors such as household size, income and fuel type.
- The LIHEAP Crisis Program, provides assistance to individuals who are at risk of utility shut-off or losing their heat source. Individuals may be eligible to receive grants from $25 to $500. The grant, either alone or in combination with other resources, must resolve the emergency.
- The LIHEAP Crisis Interface/Weatherization Assistance Program assists with repair or replacement of heating systems and assists with repairs that include broken windows and insulation.
You may request an application by contacting the LIHEAP office at 215-560-1583, the Statewide LIHEAP Hotline at 1-866-857-7095, your local DPW County Assistance Office, or your utility company. You may also apply online at www.compass.state.pa.us.
Please call the Pennsylvania SeniorLAW Helpline at (215) 988-1242 or toll free at 1-877-727-7529 Monday through Thursday between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. for additional information.