Local Resource Community Action of Eastern Iowa – Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
You may be able to get help paying for part of your winter heating costs through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Agency
- Community Action of Eastern Iowa
- Type
- Local Resource
- Phone
- (563) 324-3236
- Application Period
- Income Limit
You may be able to get help paying for part of your winter heating costs through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Community Action of Eastern Iowa assists with the application process. Assistance levels depend on income level, family size, type of fuel used, and other factors. Eligible applicants are protected from disconnection from heating and electrical service through April 1st each year and may receive propane delivery if heating with liquid propane.
You may be able to get help paying for part of your winter heating costs through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Community Action of Eastern Iowa assists with the application process. Assistance levels depend on income level, family size, type of fuel used, and other factors. Eligible applicants are protected from disconnection from heating and electrical service through April 1st each year and may receive propane delivery if heating with liquid propane.
Eligibility Requirements
Meet income guidelines
Images & PDFs
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View Full ImageImpact Reports
Combating Stigma: Community Perspectives on Energy Assistance Programs
6/25/2021 | Coverage: local
This community-based report highlights qualitative research from participants of LIHEAP, discussing the stigma surrounding receiving aid and how local initiatives have successfully reduced this perception.
Source: Rural Institute for Community Development
Coverage Area: local
Impact of LIHEAP on Low-Income Households in Iowa
10/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report outlines the effectiveness of the LIHEAP program in alleviating energy costs for low-income households in Iowa, detailing how financial assistance improves living conditions and reduces the need for trade-offs in other essential expenditures.
Source: Iowa Department of Human Rights
Coverage Area: state
Understanding the Rising Need for Energy Assistance: A Focus on LIHEAP
3/1/2023 | Coverage: national
This national study examines the correlation between rising costs of living and the increased demand for LIHEAP assistance, providing insights into how economic pressures necessitate greater support for low-income families.
Source: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
COVID-19 Relief Funding
12/27/2020Emergency funding for LIHEAP was included in the COVID-19 relief package to support families struggling during the pandemic.
LIHEAP Flexibility
1/1/2010New guidelines allowed states more flexibility in determining eligibility and funding distribution for LIHEAP.
FAQ
Applications for LIHEAP can be completed through your local community action agency. You can also apply online through the Iowa Department of Human Services website during the application period.
The LIHEAP application period typically opens in November and runs through April. It is advisable to check the specific dates for the current year on the Iowa Department of Human Services website or by contacting your local community action agency.
Eligibility for LIHEAP is primarily based on income and household size. Households must have an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and meet additional criteria set by the program.
Before applying for LIHEAP, ensure you have the following items:
- Proof of income for all household members
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Utility bills (heating and cooling) from the past 30 days
- Identification (driver's license or state ID)
Gathering these documents will help streamline the application process.
To get started with your LIHEAP application, consider these steps:
- Visit the official LIHEAP website to check eligibility requirements.
- Contact your local community action agency for assistance with your application.
- Prepare your documentation in advance to avoid delays.
- Submit your application as soon as possible, as funding is limited.
Taking these actions can help ensure you receive the assistance you need promptly.
Reference: https://dhsoha.iowa.gov/energy-assistance/eligibility
Funding availability may fluctuate, and it is important to apply early in the season.
