LIHEAP: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
LIHEAP is the main federal program for help paying heating and cooling bills. It's available in all 50 states and DC, with no repayment required. Most households must earn less than 150% FPL to qualify.
Helps pay gas, oil, propane, electric, and wood heating costs. Opens in fall, so apply early.
Helps pay summer electric bills for air conditioning. Available in most states and opens in spring.
Emergency help for utility shutoffs. Processed in 24–48 hours. Available year-round in many states.
Free Air Conditioner & Cooling Assistance Programs
Beyond LIHEAP, several programs specifically help with cooling costs and provide free air conditioners to low-income households:
- LIHEAP Cooling Component: many states use LIHEAP funds for summer cooling assistance and cooling equipment
- State cooling programs: California, Texas, Florida, and Arizona have state-funded cooling programs beyond LIHEAP
- Utility company AC programs: some utilities offer free or reduced-cost air conditioners to low-income customers
- Community Action Agencies: many offer free fans and AC units to seniors and disabled households in summer
- Area Agency on Aging: connects seniors with cooling programs. Call 1-800-677-1116.
Utility Company Assistance Programs
Most major electric and gas utilities offer their own low-income assistance programs, separate from LIHEAP:
Many utilities offer 20–35% discounts on monthly bills for qualifying low-income customers. Call your utility and ask about their "lifeline" or low-income rate program.
Spreads your annual energy cost across 12 equal monthly payments so you don't face large winter or summer bills.
Many utilities have customer assistance funds that provide one-time grants to customers facing shutoff. Ask your utility about their "Neighbor helping Neighbor" or similar fund.
Most states have rules preventing utilities from shutting off service during extreme cold or heat, or to households with infants, elderly, or disabled members. Know your rights.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides free home energy efficiency improvements to low-income households, reducing your utility bills permanently rather than just paying them once. This includes insulation, weather stripping, efficient heating/cooling equipment, and more.
- Income limit: 200% FPL ($5,500/month for a family of 4)
- Priority given to elderly, disabled, and families with young children
- Average energy savings of $300–$500/year after weatherization
- Often administered through the same agencies as LIHEAP
Contact your state energy office or call your local LIHEAP office to ask about weatherization services in your area.
Emergency Electric Bill Help: Utility Shutoff Assistance
If your electricity has been shut off or you've received a shutoff notice, act immediately:
Contact your state LIHEAP office immediately and say you have a utility emergency. Crisis applications can often be processed in 24–48 hours.
Dial 2-1-1 to reach local social services. They can connect you to emergency utility assistance funds from charities and community organizations.
Call your utility company directly and ask about a payment arrangement, hardship program, or whether LIHEAP assistance is pending on your account.
The Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, and local churches often provide one-time emergency utility assistance. Contact multiple organizations. Funds are limited but often available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What programs help pay electric bills?
The main programs are LIHEAP (federal heating/cooling assistance), utility company low-income programs, state-specific energy assistance programs, and the Weatherization Assistance Program. Charities like the Salvation Army and Catholic Charities also offer one-time emergency utility help.
How do I get emergency help paying my electric bill?
Call your state LIHEAP crisis line immediately and say you have a utility emergency. Also dial 211 for local emergency assistance resources. Contact your utility company directly about payment arrangements. Most utilities are required to work with you before shutting off service.
Can I get a free air conditioner if I can't afford one?
Yes. LIHEAP cooling assistance in many states includes free or reduced-cost air conditioners and fans for qualifying households. Seniors and disabled individuals are often prioritized. Contact your local LIHEAP office or Area Agency on Aging (1-800-677-1116) for cooling equipment programs.
What is the income limit for electric bill help?
LIHEAP generally uses 150% FPL as a benchmark, which is $4,125/month for a family of 4 in 2026. Utility company programs vary, with some serving households up to 200% FPL. Contact your utility directly to ask about their specific income threshold.
Does LIHEAP pay the utility company directly?
In most cases, yes. LIHEAP benefits are paid directly to your utility provider as a credit on your account. You do not typically receive cash. The credit is applied to your next bill or outstanding balance.