Who Qualifies for LIHEAP?
LIHEAP is administered by states and tribes with federal funding. Eligibility requirements vary by state, but all programs must follow federal guidelines.
Gross household income must be at or below 150% FPL (federal maximum) or 60% of State Median Income — whichever is higher. Most states set limits between 110–150% FPL. If you receive SNAP, SSI, TANF, or certain other benefits you may be automatically eligible.
You must be responsible for paying home energy costs — either directly (utility account in your name) or indirectly (rent that includes utilities). Renters whose heat is included in rent can qualify.
You must be a resident of the state where you apply. Some states prioritize households with elderly members (60+), young children (under 5), or people with disabilities.
Who gets priority?
When LIHEAP funds are limited, states must give priority to households with the highest energy costs relative to income, and those with vulnerable members:
- Elderly individuals (age 60+)
- People with disabilities
- Young children under age 5
- Households at risk of having utilities shut off
- Households with medical conditions affected by temperature extremes
LIHEAP Income Limits 2026
These are the federal maximum income limits at 150% FPL, mandatory for FY2026. Your state may use a lower threshold. Source: HHS/ACF LIHEAP IM2025-02.
48 Contiguous States + DC
| Household size | Monthly limit | Annual limit | Weekly limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,995 | $23,940 | $460 |
| 2 people | $2,705 | $32,460 | $624 |
| 3 people | $3,415 | $40,980 | $788 |
| 4 people | $4,125 | $49,500 | $952 |
| 5 people | $4,835 | $58,020 | $1,116 |
| 6 people | $5,545 | $66,540 | $1,280 |
| 7 people | $6,255 | $75,060 | $1,444 |
| 8 people | $6,965 | $83,580 | $1,607 |
| Each additional person | +$710 | +$8,520 | +$164 |
Alaska
| Household | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,494 | $29,925 |
| 2 | $3,379 | $40,545 |
| 3 | $4,265 | $51,180 |
| 4 | $5,150 | $61,800 |
| 5 | $6,035 | $72,420 |
| 6 | $6,921 | $83,055 |
| 7 | $7,806 | $93,675 |
| 8 | $8,691 | $104,295 |
Hawaii
| Household | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,295 | $27,540 |
| 2 | $3,109 | $37,305 |
| 3 | $3,924 | $47,085 |
| 4 | $4,738 | $56,850 |
| 5 | $5,552 | $66,630 |
| 6 | $6,367 | $76,410 |
| 7 | $7,181 | $86,175 |
| 8 | $7,996 | $95,955 |
What LIHEAP Covers
LIHEAP has up to four components. Not all states offer all components — availability depends on your state's program design and available funding.
Help paying winter heating bills — natural gas, electricity, oil, propane, wood, or other heating fuels. Usually a one-time annual benefit paid directly to your utility or fuel supplier.
Help paying summer cooling/air conditioning bills in states with hot climates. May include air conditioner units for qualifying households.
Emergency help when heat or cooling service is shut off or about to be shut off, or if you're running out of fuel. Usually faster processing — can sometimes be resolved same-day or next-day.
Home weatherization improvements — insulation, window sealing, furnace repair — to reduce energy costs long-term. Often coordinated with the DOE Weatherization Assistance Program.
Benefit amounts
Benefit amounts vary significantly by state and are based on factors including your income, household size, type of fuel, home size, and local energy costs. Typical heating assistance grants range from $200 to $1,000 per year, though some states offer more. The benefit is usually paid directly to your utility company or fuel provider — not to you personally.
How to Apply for LIHEAP
LIHEAP is administered locally — you apply through your state or local agency, not directly through the federal government. Funding is limited and allocated annually, so apply early in the heating season.
Use the state directory below or call 1-800-342-3009 (National Energy Assistance Referral hotline) to find your local LIHEAP office.
You'll typically need: photo ID, proof of address, Social Security numbers for all household members, proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters), and a recent utility bill or fuel account number.
Many states accept applications online, by mail, by phone, or in person. If you receive SNAP or SSI, bring your benefit letter — it may speed up income verification.
If approved, payment is usually made directly to your utility company or fuel provider and credited to your account. Processing times vary from a few days to several weeks.
Find Your State LIHEAP Office
Select your state to find the application website and phone number for your state's LIHEAP program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for LIHEAP if I rent my home?
Yes. Renters can qualify for LIHEAP even if utilities are included in rent. You must be responsible for paying energy costs — either directly or through your rent. Your landlord may need to provide documentation.
How much money will I receive from LIHEAP?
Benefit amounts vary by state, your income, household size, and energy costs. Most states provide a one-time annual heating benefit of $200–$1,000, paid directly to your utility or fuel provider. Some states offer separate cooling and crisis benefits.
Does LIHEAP cover electricity bills?
Yes — if electricity is your primary heating or cooling source. LIHEAP covers all primary heating and cooling fuels including natural gas, electricity, oil, propane, wood pellets, and kerosene. What's covered depends on your state's program design.
Can I get LIHEAP and SNAP at the same time?
Yes. LIHEAP and SNAP are separate programs and receiving one does not affect eligibility for the other. In fact, many states use SNAP enrollment as a way to automatically qualify households for LIHEAP income requirements.
What if I'm facing an immediate utility shutoff?
Apply for LIHEAP crisis assistance immediately — do not wait. Contact your state LIHEAP office directly and explain you are facing a shutoff. Crisis assistance has faster processing. Also contact your utility company — most utilities have hardship programs and are required to notify LIHEAP before disconnecting low-income customers.
When does LIHEAP open for applications?
Most states open applications in October or November for the winter heating season, and some run separate cooling programs in summer. Dates vary by state and by how quickly funding is allocated. Check your state office for exact dates — programs often run out of funds before the season ends.
Is LIHEAP available year-round?
Most states offer LIHEAP primarily during the heating season (fall through spring). Some states also run summer cooling assistance programs. Crisis assistance may be available year-round when funds permit.