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Your heating bill just came in, and it hurts. Before you skip a prescription or a grocery run, look at LIHEAP. It helps pay for heat. Renters can qualify too.
How LIHEAP Heating Help Works
What does LIHEAP pay for?
More than the monthly bill. It can cover shutoff prevention and reconnection, crisis help, and heating-equipment repair. Some states also pay for cooling and weatherization. There is no fee to apply.
Who qualifies?
That depends on your state. Each one sets its own income limit, within a federal cap. Households with older adults, people with disabilities, or young children often get priority.
Some states approve SNAP, TANF, or SSI households automatically. Others don’t. Even if you qualify, the money may run out, and it rarely covers the whole bill.
How do you apply?
Not through the federal government. You go through your state or local office. Start with the state contact list. Or call the national referral hotline at 1-866-674-6327, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern. Ask what paperwork to bring.
Is the funding safe this year?
It has been bumpy. The last 10% of 2026 funds, about $421 million, reached states April 20 after delays. The administration’s 2027 budget again proposes ending the program, the same report says. Congress hasn’t acted on it as of this writing.
What if your utility threatens a shutoff?
Call the utility first. Ask about a payment plan. Shutoff rules differ by state, and USA.gov can point you to yours. Complaints go to your state public utility commission.
How do you avoid LIHEAP scams?
Never pay anyone to apply. The program charges nothing. Report a suspicious message to the HHS fraud hotline at 1-800-447-8477.
Editor’s Take
LIHEAP won’t erase a high bill, but it can soften it. Apply early. Our guide to winter heating costs shows what households may pay this season.
