LIHEAP: How to Get Help Paying Your Heating Bill This Winter

Winter heating bills can become a major expense that some households can’t afford. About 16% of households fell behind on their electric bills, according to a December 2025 announcement from the National Energy Assistance Directors Association (NEADA). The NEADA predicts power shut-offs will climb from 3.5 million to 4 million in 2026.

The good news is that real help exists, and you may already qualify. LIHEAP helps millions of households pay their heating bills every winter. In an emergency, it can be life-saving. WorkMoney has your guide to what LIHEAP is, who qualifies, and how to get it.

What Is LIHEAP?

LIHEAP is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. This federally funded program helps households with lower incomes pay their home energy bills. 

The federal government pays for it, and each state, tribe, and territory runs its own version of LIHEAP. That means your income limit, your benefit amount, and the dates you can apply all depend on where you live.

LIHEAP can cover many different energy costs, including:

• Heating bills in winter and, in some cases, cooling costs in summer.

• Emergency help if you’re facing a potential electricity shut-off, broken furnace, or nearly empty fuel tank.

• Energy-related repairs and weatherization, depending on where you live, which can lower what it costs to heat your home.

Losing heat during a cold snap can put your health at risk, and LIHEAP helps you keep the heat on. Being behind on a bill isn’t a requirement, either. The program can support you early, before a bill grows into a crisis. LIHEAP can help you stay warm through the coldest months.

Are You Eligible for LIHEAP?

LIHEAP eligibility is based on your household income and size. Federal rules set the ceiling at 150% of the federal poverty guideline, or 60% of your state’s median income, with your state picking its own limit within that range. 

Since numbers vary by state, check your state’s regulations. For instance, a two-person household in Florida might qualify with an annual income of $42,049 or less. In Ohio, that same two-person household would qualify with an annual household income of $37,870 or less. 

Both renters and homeowners are eligible, even if renters have heat bills included in their rent. 

If you already receive SNAP, Supplemental Security Income, TANF, or certain veterans’ benefits, you may qualify automatically. Those living in subsidized housing might also be eligible.

How Much Can You Get From LIHEAP?

Benefit amounts vary widely by state, household size, income, and the fuel you use, so there’s no universal figure. LIHEAP provides bill assistance, often as a one-time payment for the season. In most states, the money goes directly to your utility or fuel company and appears as a credit on your account. There’s a chance you may never handle the cash yourself.

Remember, this is an earned benefit that allows you to free up cash for other household needs.

What Is the LIHEAP Crisis Grant?

If you get a disconnection notice, lose your heat, or run low on fuel, LIHEAP crisis or emergency assistance can help, sometimes within a day or two during a dangerous cold.

When you contact your local office, use the word “crisis” or “emergency” so they treat your case with urgency. If you’re unsure where to call, the National Energy Assistance Referral line at 1-866-674-6327 can point you to your local program.

How to Apply for LIHEAP

If you’re eligible for LIHEAP, it’s important to do a little preparation work beforehand.

1. Find your state’s program. Use the federal contact map or call 1-866-674-6327.

2. Check your state’s application window. Many programs open in the fall for winter heating, and some let past recipients apply early. Funds are given out on a first-come, first-served basis, so apply as soon as you can.

3. Gather your documents ahead of time. Get a recent energy bill, proof of income, a photo ID, and Social Security numbers for household members.

4. Complete an application. You can apply online, by mail, or in person, depending on your state. Keep a copy of everything you send.

Only about one in six eligible households actually receives LIHEAP. Money is limited, so applying early improves your chances of approval.

Common LIHEAP Mistakes to Avoid

A little awareness helps keep you on track. Avoid these mistakes so you don’t miss out on earned benefits.

• Waiting until you’re in crisis. You can apply before you fall behind, and early applicants have the best shot while funds last.

• Assuming you earn too much. Limits depend on your state and household size, and many working families qualify. Check your state’s number before you rule yourself out.

• Missing your state’s window. Many programs open in the fall and close once the money runs out. Note your dates and apply as soon as they open.

• Sending an incomplete application. A missing pay stub or ID can stall your case for weeks. Gather your documents first, then apply.

Lowering Bills After Your LIHEAP Application

A standard LIHEAP application can take a few weeks to process, but there are a few things you can do while you wait for approval. If your first grant doesn’t cover all of your needs, ask your local office about additional assistance or a payment plan with your utility. Check whether you qualify for weatherization assistance to lower next winter’s bill.

If you’re still falling short, some other no-cost options may help. Arbor reviews your electric bill and locks in a lower supply rate for you at no charge, where service is available. Home energy rebates through the HOMES and HEEHR programs can help make your home cheaper to heat for years to come.

What if You Don’t Qualify for LIHEAP?

LIHEAP is one of many different resources available to you. If your income is above the limit or funds have run out, a few other programs can help.

• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). This federal program pays for energy-saving home improvements for income-eligible households at no cost, which lowers your bills year-round.

• Your utility’s payment options. Many companies offer budget billing, which spreads your costs evenly across the year, and some states run percentage-of-income plans that cap what you pay. Call and ask what’s available.

• Dial 2-1-1. United Way’s 211 connects you with local groups that help with utility bills, often including one-time emergency funds.