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LIHEAP winter energy assistance 2024-2025: how to apply online

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Image of Julianna Lai
Table of contents
Table of contents

Winter is here—and so are those heating bills. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), a government agency which collects and analyzes energy data for the public and policymakers, predicts that this winter 2024-2045 will be colder than the previous winter in many parts of the country.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a benefit program that helps millions of households manage their heating and cooling costs. If you're struggling to pay your energy bills, LIHEAP can provide financial assistance and protect you from utility shutoffs.

Here’s what you need to know about qualifying for, applying for, and getting LIHEAP benefits—along with specific LIHEAP application dates and guidance for finding your local low-income energy office.

What is the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)?

LIHEAP is a federal program that helps low-income households with their home energy bills. The program provides two main types of assistance:

  • Regular benefits that help pay for heating and cooling costs
  • Crisis benefits for households facing utility shutoffs or other energy emergencies

Every state runs its own LIHEAP program using federal funds. This means exact benefit amounts, eligibility rules, and LIHEAP application processes vary depending on where you live.

After LIHEAP approval, the program typically pays your utility company directly, and they apply the credit to your account. For renters whose utilities are included in their rent, LIHEAP will mail you a check instead. LIHEAP is a one-time payment per heating or cooling season.

The most important thing to remember if you’re looking for utility assistance through LIHEAP is that these benefits are often first-come, first-serve. The sooner you apply, the more likely you are to get LIHEAP benefits.

Who is eligible for LIHEAP?

To qualify for LIHEAP, you typically need to meet both income requirements and be the one responsible for paying your utility bills. Most states set income limits at around 60% of the state median income, meaning you must make under a certain amount of money in order to get LIHEAP benefits.

You may automatically qualify for LIHEAP if you receive:

  • SNAP (food stamps)
  • SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
  • TANF (cash assistance)
  • Certain Veterans benefits

Some states also have asset limits ranging from $2,000 to $3,750. Contact your state’s LIHEAP office for exact income guidelines in your area.

How do I apply for LIHEAP?

LIHEAP application methods vary by state, but usually include one or more of these options:

  1. Online portals: Many states now offer online applications through systems like:
    • COMPASS (Pennsylvania)
    • ACCESS (New York City)
    • MI Bridges (Michigan)
    • DCAid (New Jersey)
  2. Local agencies: Most states work with Community Action Agencies (CAAs) that process applications and provide in-person help.
  3. Mail/Phone: Paper applications are usually available if you can't apply online or in person.

When you’re applying for LIHEAP, you should have these documents at the ready since some or all of them may be required:

  • ID for all household members
  • Proof of income
  • Recent utility bills
  • Social Security cards
  • Proof of residence

Your local LIHEAP office will tell you if you need to schedule an appointment and which documents or screenshots you’ll need to show when you apply.

How do I find contact information for the LIHEAP office near me?

Tip: Apply through your state’s online application portal, if available. Some states do not offer online applications and process all LIHEAP requests through local offices or paper forms.

Tips for a successful LIHEAP application

  1. Apply early: Many states distribute funds first-come, first-served until money runs out.
  2. Gather documents beforehand: Having all your required paperwork ready speeds up the process. Usually screenshots will be enough and you don’t need to print everything.
  3. Keep copies: Save copies of everything you submit.
  4. Follow up: If you don't hear back within the standard processing time, contact your local office.
  5. Appeal if denied: Most states offer fair hearings if you disagree with a decision.

When does LIHEAP open for winter 2024-2025?

Most states start accepting LIHEAP applications in late fall, but exact dates vary:

  • October 1st start: Several states, including North Dakota, Maine, and Oregon (for seniors/disabled)
  • November 1st start: Many states including Connecticut, New York, and Ohio
  • December 1st start: Some states like Georgia (for seniors) and North Carolina (for seniors)
  • January start: States like Kansas and some general public applications

Many states also prioritize certain groups by offering early application periods for:

  • Seniors (usually age 60+)
  • People with disabilities
  • Households with young children
  • Households facing utility disconnection

What happens after I apply for LIHEAP?

Processing times vary by state but typically range from 30-60 days. Some states like Maryland guarantee decisions within 45 days, while others like Ohio may take up to 12 weeks.

If approved:

  • For utility bills: Payment usually goes directly to your utility company
  • For deliverable fuels (like oil or propane): You may receive a voucher or the program may pay your fuel vendor directly
  • If heat is included in your rent: Some states will send payment directly to you

Keep paying your utility bills while waiting for a decision on your application. If your bills are overdue or you’re in danger of running out of fuel, contact your heat or electric company to set up a deferred payment agreement and let them know that you’ve applied for heating assistance.

How much is the 2024-2025 LIHEAP discount?

LIHEAP benefit amounts vary widely based on:

  • Your household income
  • Household size (how many people live with you)
  • Energy costs
  • Type of fuel you use
  • Where you live
  • Whether you have vulnerable household members (elderly, disabled, young children)

Some examples of typical one-time LIHEAP benefit ranges:

  • New Jersey: Up to $800
  • Maryland: $200-1,000
  • Minnesota: Average $550, up to $1,400
  • Massachusetts: Up to $2,177

State-specific LIHEAP application tips

New York

  • Regular HEAP starts November 1
  • Crisis/Emergency benefits start January 2
  • Apply through ACCESS NYC for city residents, myBenefits.ny.gov for other areas
  • Asset limit: $3,750 for households with elderly/disabled members, $2,500 for others

California

  • Available year-round
  • Apply through local service providers
  • Applications typically processed within 8 weeks
  • Special rules for subsidized housing residents

Florida

  • Available year-round
  • Process applications within 30 days
  • Apply through local Community Action Agencies

Illinois

  • October 1 start for vulnerable households
  • November 1 start for general public
  • Program runs through August 15
  • Apply through local Community Action Agencies

Ohio

  • Online applications available through state benefits portal
  • 12-week processing time
  • Payments made directly to utility companies