The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides a one-time benefit to help pay for heating or cooling costs. The amount of assistance depends on your income, household size, and the cost of energy in your area. To qualify, you must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines for heating assistance and 130% for air conditioning assistance. You can apply for LIHEAP through your local community action agency. Find your local community action agency here: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program/community-action-agencies.
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides free energy-efficient improvements to low-income homes, such as insulation, caulking, and weatherstripping. These improvements can help reduce your energy bills by making your home more energy efficient. To qualify, you must be a homeowner or a renter who meets income eligibility requirements. You can apply for WAP through your local community action agency.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, provides monthly benefits to help low-income individuals and families buy food. SNAP benefits can also be used to pay for electricity and gas bills. To qualify, you must meet certain income and asset limits. You can apply for SNAP through your local state or county office.
In addition to these federal programs, there may also be state or local programs that can help with your electric bill. Contact your local utility company or state energy office to find out about these programs.
