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Your guide to energy & utilities support

LIHEAP
A clearer place to start.

Helps pay heating and cooling bills for low-income households.

Free results · About 3 minutes · No account needed

The program at a glance
What it helps with
Energy & Utilities
Administered by
U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
Typical processing estimate
7–30 days
Cost to apply directly
Free

Your state agency decides eligibility and benefit amounts. This guide helps you get oriented.

The basics

Understand the support.

LIHEAP is administered by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. $200–$600 per season

Funds are limited — apply as early as possible each season.

Benefits depend on your household and the program’s rules. A possible match is a starting point, not an approval.

Who may qualify

Start with your household.

These are some of the factors the program considers. State rules and additional requirements may apply.

Income

150% of the poverty level

A general income reference. Deductions and state rules can change the applicable limit.

Where you live

Check your state’s rules

Your state guide brings together application links and local requirements.

Choose your state
Income reference

See how household size matters.

The 2026 federal poverty guidelines provide a reference point. This table is illustrative; confirm the program’s current limits with your state.

LIHEAP illustrative income threshold in the contiguous US: 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Based on 2026 HHS poverty guidelines. Program effective dates, deductions and state rules may differ; confirm with the agency.

Household Size2026 FPLAnnual Limit (150%)Monthly Limit
1 person$15,960$23,940$1,995
2 people$21,640$32,460$2,705
3 people$27,320$40,980$3,415
4 people$33,000$49,500$4,125
5 people$38,680$58,020$4,835
6 people$44,360$66,540$5,545
7 people$50,040$75,060$6,255
8 people$55,720$83,580$6,965

Each additional person adds approximately $5,680 to the FPL base ($8,520 at 150%).

What to gather

A little preparation helps.

Your agency will confirm exactly what it needs. These documents are a useful place to start.

  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of residency
  • Most recent utility bill
  • Proof of income

You do not need to upload documents or provide your Social Security number to take our free quiz.

Find your state

Your next step is closer to home.

Explore local requirements and where to apply for LIHEAP.

View all 51 states and districts
Visit the official program website
Common questions

A few things to know.

What is LIHEAP?

Helps pay heating and cooling bills for low-income households.

How much is LIHEAP worth?

$400 to $1,800 per year. $200–$600 per season

What documents do I need?

You'll need: Proof of identity, Proof of residency, Most recent utility bill, Proof of income.

How long does processing take?

7-30 days from submission.

How often do I renew?

Every 12 months.

Your next step

See what may fit your household.

Answer a few questions to explore your possible matches and free application links. No account needed.

Find my benefits →

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