Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help you in two ways: Energy Assistance/Regular Heating (EA) and Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP).
Energy Assistance (EA) helps you with a one-time payment for your primary heating bills from November through March.
The Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) helps pay your fuel bill when your energy is shut off or is threatened to be shut off. The amount of help you receive is based on the amount of money needed to settle your crisis with the energy provider.
The ECIP is available during the following months:
- Winter ECIP is available November through May based on funding; the maximum amount you could receive is $800
- Summer ECIP is available June through September based on funding; the maximum amount you could receive is $300
How do I get help?
Who Is Eligible?
LIHEAP helps low income households meet their immediate energy needs. It can mainly help those who spend a large amount of their household income on energy bills. Eligibility requirements for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are based on income, household size, available resources and responsibility for payment of home energy costs.
To qualify for LIHEAP assistance, you must meet each of these requirements:
- Be responsible for paying home heating and cooling costs
- Be a United States citizen or have been legally admitted for permanent residence
- Have $3,000 or less in bank accounts, retirement accounts, or investments
- Meet specific income guidelines that vary according to household size and fuel type
For more information about requirements, you should contact a caseworker with the Contracted Agency that provides services for your area.
What services are available?
Not only can LIHEAP help you pay your main heating and cooling bills, some contracted agencies may also provide emergency services such as:
- Blankets
- Emergency lodging
- Furnace and central air replacement and repair
- Window air conditioners
- Wood stoves
How do I apply?
To apply for LIHEAP, you need to download and print the application. Completed applications should be mailed to your local Contracted Agency. If you live in Jackson, Clay or Platte counties, LIHEAP has a new address.
You can also request an application be mailed to you by calling 855-FSD-INFO (855-373-4636).
Before mailing your application, make sure you have:
- Answered all questions completely
- Signed and dated application
- Included your main fuel bill
- Included income records for household members not receiving food stamps
- Included shut off notice (if your account is in disconnect status)
- Included copies of Social Security cards (if you are not currently getting public assistance)
LIHEAP Contractor/Supplier Online Access & Information
Voter Registration Application
If you wish to register to vote, please download and complete the Voter Registration Form and return it to your local FSD office. This has no impact on your application or continued eligibility for assistance.