Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

http://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/liheap-state-and-territory-contact-listing

Check website or call 866-674-6327 National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR)

Low income-eligible individuals and families

LIHEAP assists low income households, particularly those with the lowest incomes paying a high proportion of household income for home energy, in meeting their immediate home energy needs. The program, part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is funded by grants appropriated from the federal government.  Each State has its own form and rules for applying for energy assistance.

• If the applicant meets certain income guidelines and other criteria, the local LIHEAP office may provide: help paying heating or cooling bills; emergency services in cases of energy crisis, such as utility shutoffs; and low-cost home improvements, known as weatherization, that make the home more energy efficient and lowers utility bills
• Payments are usually made directly to local utility companies or vendors; the payment amount is figured according to the size and type of home, as well as type of fuel.