Low-income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Fall weather is in the air and so is the annual Low-income Home Energy Assistance Program (LiHEAP). Applications are accepted on a first-come/first served basis from November 1st thru April 30th each year. Elderly and disabled clients may apply beginning October 1st.
What is LiHEAP?
LiHEAP is designed to aid qualifying low-income households (homeowners and renters) in the payment portion of their residential heating costs for the winter heating season, to encourage regular utility payments, to promote energy awareness and to encourage reduction of energy usage through energy efficiency and client education. All households applying for this program will simultaneously be making application for weatherization assistance as required by state law.
This program is not designed to pay a household’s total energy costs. It will provide supplemental assistance based on several factors including household income, household type, household size, dwelling type, and type of heating fuel, among others. The average payment per household is $400.
Who is Eligible for LiHEAP?
A household may qualify for heating assistance if the total household income falls within 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
SIZE OF HOUSEHOLD ANNUAL HOUSEHOLD INCOME
1 $ 27,180
2 $ 36,620
3 $ 46,060
4 $ 55,500
5 $ 69,940
For family units with more than five members, add $9,440 for each additional member.
What Documents Do I Need to Apply?
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Social Security Card or I-94 Card - We require a copy of the original card for each household member.
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Current Heat Bill and Electric Bill - This may be two separate bills.
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Proof of Income. This includes total household gross income from all sources. We must have complete proof of income to process your application.
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Fixed Income: Includes Social Security Income, Aid to Families with Dependent Children or F.I.P., Veterans’ Assistance, Unemployment Insurance and Pensions. Provide a copy of your most recent check or a bank statement showing automatic deposit.
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Wage Earners: Attach copies of your check stubs for 30 days preceding the date of application, the past 12 months or the most recent calendar year Federal Income Tax Return 2021 or 2022.
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Self-Employed/Farmers: A copy of your 2021 or 2022 Federal Income Tax Return.
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Other Income: Alimony and child support will also need to be verified.
Where can I apply?
Please call your local outreach office to schedule an appointment or call 1-800-859-2025. Again, this year, persons can apply over the telephone, by mail, or in person. On-line applications (https://app.liheapia.net) can be taken starting November 1, 2022.
Clinics will also be held in October at the following locations: Aurelia, Marcus, Quimby, Washta, Kingsley, Remsen, Akron, Battle Creek, Holstein, Hawarden, Orange City, Rock Valley, Larchwood, and George.
712-225-3322 - Cherokee County
712-546-6603 - Plymouth County
712-364-2175 - Ida County
712-722-3611 - Sioux County
712-472-3746 - Lyon County
800-859-2025
Central Office 1-800-859-2025 / Hearing Impaired call 711
What is ECIP?
Energy Crisis Intervention Payments (ECIP) are made for weather-related and supply shortage emergencies. Money can help with furnace repair/replacement, temporary shelter, purchase of blankets and/or heaters, fuel delivery, reconnect fees, service continuity, and cooling.