Hawaii

LIHEAP in Hawaii

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs

Agency
Benefit, Employment & Support Services Division
Type
Federal Program
Phone
808-586-5734
Application Period
Typically in June each year
Income Limit
Varies by household size and income but generally must be within 150% of the federal poverty level
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The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs. It provides federally funded assistance in managing costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, and weatherization and energy-related minor home repairs.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs. It provides federally funded assistance in managing costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, and weatherization and energy-related minor home repairs.

Eligibility Requirements

Low-income households, including the elderly, people with disabilities, and families with young children, must meet federal poverty level guidelines

Application Process

Applications must be completed and submitted during the open enrollment period. Assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible applicants.

Required Documents

Proof of income, proof of residency, utility bills, social security numbers for all household members

Additional Information

Applicants are advised to apply early due to limited funding. There may be a waiting list.

Images & PDFs

State of Hawaii Department of Human ...

State of Hawaii Department of Human ...

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Impact Reports

Addressing the Cost of Living Crisis: The Role of LIHEAP

5/10/2023 | Coverage: national

This national report discusses the urgent need for programs like LIHEAP as the cost of living rises and provides evidence to counteract the stigma associated with receiving assistance.

Source: National Energy Assistance Directors' Association

Coverage Area: national

Community Perspectives on LIHEAP and Utility Assistance Programs

11/20/2021 | Coverage: local

A comprehensive analysis of how LIHEAP serves not just individual families, but strengthens entire communities in Hawaii.

Source: Hawaii Community Foundation

Coverage Area: local

Impact of LIHEAP on Low-Income Households in Hawaii

3/15/2022 | Coverage: state

This report details how the LIHEAP program has positively impacted low-income households in Hawaii, especially in the context of rising energy costs and stagnant wages.

Source: Hawaii Department of Human Services

Coverage Area: state

Program Timeline

COVID-19 Emergency Funding for LIHEAP

12/27/2020

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted an increase in LIHEAP funding to support increased energy costs and economic distress caused by the pandemic.

Bill: Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021
Party: Bipartisan

Introduction of the LIHEAP Energy Efficiency Program

1/1/2014

The program introduced measures to not only provide energy assistance but also to promote energy efficiency among low-income households.

Party: Bipartisan

Expansion of LIHEAP Funding

11/5/1990

The Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990 significantly increased LIHEAP funding levels.

Bill: Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1990
Party: Bipartisan

Establishment of LIHEAP

1/1/1981

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was established to help low-income households pay their home energy bills.

Bill: LIHEAP Act of 1981
Party: Bipartisan

FAQ

To apply for LIHEAP assistance in Hawaii, you can follow these steps: visit your local Department of Human Services office, or check their website for online application options. It is important to gather all necessary documentation before applying, such as proof of income, identification, and current energy bills. Make sure to apply during the open enrollment period to ensure your application is considered.

Before applying for LIHEAP assistance, please ensure you have the following documents:

  • Proof of income for all household members
  • Identification (such as a driver's license or state ID)
  • Current utility bills (electricity, gas, etc.)
  • Completed application form

Having these documents ready will help streamline the application process.

After you apply for LIHEAP assistance, consider taking the following action steps:

  1. Monitor your application status through the local office or website.
  2. Attend any scheduled interviews or provide additional information if requested.
  3. Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records.
  4. Explore additional energy assistance programs if needed.

These steps will help ensure that you remain informed and proactive throughout the application process.

Reference: https://humanservices.hawaii.gov/bessd/liheap/

Application processing times may vary; be patient and follow up as needed.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that helps low-income households in Hawaii pay their home energy bills. The program aims to reduce the financial burden of energy costs, especially during the hottest months of the year. Eligible households can receive financial assistance for their utility bills, including electricity and gas. To apply for LIHEAP, residents must meet income eligibility requirements and submit an application to their local Department of Human Services.

Reference: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/liheap

Eligibility requirements and funding levels may vary; please consult local guidelines.

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