The 2018-2019 application for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is now open through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. LIHEAP is a federally-funded program that helps low-income households with their energy bills. The program helps Pennsylvanians to cover their heating costs through the winter months in order to remain safe and healthy in their homes.

The LIHEAP program provides both cash and crisis benefits to low-income households. Cash grants are sent directly to a recipient’s utility company or fuel provider as a one-time payment. Cash grants range from $200-$1000 and are based on household size, income, and fuel type. Crisis grants are made available to help meet emergency home energy situations, such as broken heating equipment or the termination of utility services. Crisis grants are available to those who qualify until a maximum of $600 has been reached.

Individuals and families can qualify for LIHEAP based on income guidelines. A single individual living alone will be eligible if they have an annual income of less than $18,210. The full breakdown of income requirements is available here. LIHEAP is available to both renters and homeowners.

You can apply for LIHEAP benefits online using COMPASS, an online tool for Pennsylvanians to apply for health and human service programs and manage benefit information. You can also apply through your local County Assistance Office.

In order to apply, you will need:

  • Names of all people in your household
  • Dates of birth for all household members
  • Social Security Numbers for all household members
  • Proof of income for all household members
  • A recent heating bill

More information on LIHEAP is available through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

 

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