Getting Home Energy Assistance

Cut heating and cooling costs, avoid shutoffs, and make your home more efficient with proven programs and simple steps.

Why Energy Assistance Matters

Utility bills can spike during extreme heat or cold. Energy assistance programs help you pay current or past-due bills, prevent shutoffs, and lower future costs with efficiency upgrades.

Quick Tip: Apply as soon as bills start to feel unmanageable—many programs approve on a rolling basis until funds run out.

1) LIHEAP: Help With Heating & Cooling Bills

  • What it does: Provides one-time or seasonal payments toward your electric, gas, propane, or oil bill.
  • Who qualifies: Income-based eligibility; participation in benefits like SNAP/Medicaid may help fast-track verification.
  • How to apply: Apply through your state’s LIHEAP office or benefits portal; you’ll need ID, income proof, and a recent bill.

2) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

  • What it does: Funds home improvements that permanently reduce energy use—insulation, air sealing, HVAC tune-ups, smart thermostats.
  • Why it helps: Typical upgrades can lower bills for years, not just one season.
  • What to expect: An energy audit, then free contractor work if your home qualifies.

3) Utility Company Relief Options

  • Payment plans & budget billing: Spread costs evenly across months to prevent spikes.
  • Shutoff protections: Medical hardship, senior, or extreme weather moratoriums may apply.
  • Provider funds: Many utilities offer bill-forgiveness grants or arrears credits for eligible households.

4) Rebates & Instant Discounts

  • Manufacturer and utility rebates for ENERGY STAR appliances, heat pumps, and advanced thermostats.
  • Retail instant discounts on LEDs, weather-stripping, and low-flow fixtures.
  • Free home energy kits from local utilities (bulbs, power strips, faucet aerators).
Save More: Stack assistance—use LIHEAP for bill relief, then WAP or rebates to reduce future usage.

Eligibility & Documents

  • Photo ID and proof of address (lease or recent bill).
  • Proof of income for all household members (pay stubs or benefits letter).
  • Most recent utility bill and account number.
  • If applicable: medical hardship note, disconnection notice, or proof of participation in SNAP/SSI/Medicaid.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply

  1. Call 2-1-1 or visit your state benefits portal to find LIHEAP and weatherization contacts.
  2. Gather documents and take photos or PDFs for easy online upload.
  3. Submit the application online or at a local agency; ask about emergency/expedited options if you have a shutoff notice.
  4. Contact your utility to enroll in budget billing or a payment plan while your application is processed.

Common Questions

  • Can I apply if I rent? Yes—both renters and homeowners can qualify.
  • Can I choose my fuel type? Assistance can cover electric, gas, propane, oil, and deliverable fuels.
  • How long does it take? Many approvals complete in 1–3 weeks; emergency cases may be faster.

Get Started

Begin with your state LIHEAP page or dial 2-1-1 for local agencies. Ask about weatherization and rebates so you can reduce bills long-term after immediate help arrives.