The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
provides grants to local governments and non-profit agencies to assist
eligible low-income households in meeting the costs of home heating and
cooling. The majority of the funds are used for utility payment
assistance.
The program can assist customers in paying their home
energy expenses. Three categories of assistance exist: - home energy assistance,
- crisis assistance, and
- weather related or supply shortage emergency
assistance.
Each category has unique requirements.
To be eligible for the program,
household income may not exceed 150% of the poverty
guidelines and allowable and unallowable sources of
income. If the household?s income is greater
than this amount, the household may still be eligible because some types
of income are not counted. The household must provide proof, such as a
utility bill, that they are responsible for all or part of the energy
costs for the household. Please call your local agency to verify that funds
are available, what documents will be needed, and when and where they are
accepting applications. Typically, applicants will need the following:
- Copy or original of energy bill.
- For applicant only - Copy of identification (ID,
voter registration card, driver's license.)
- Copies of proof of income for every member of the
household. Proof can be the following:
- Letter from employer or consecutive pay stubs
showing gross income for at least the last thirty days or an income
tax return.
- Award letter or letter from individual or agency
from which income is received.
- Social Security Administration, Supplemental
Security Income, Veterans Affairs, Pension, Welfare
- Child Support/Alimony
- Friends or Relatives
- Any other income source
- Proof that you are receiving assistance from:
- Food Stamps
- Weatherization Assistance Program
- Community Services Block Grant Program
- In the absence of proof of income, program
administrators may allow an applicant to sign a self-declaration form
on a case-by- case basis. This may be used ONLY when an applicant has
no proof.
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