Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs
- Agency
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Income Limit
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy through initiatives that assist families with energy costs.
Images & PDFs
INFLATION REDUCTION ACT HOME ENERGY
A visual resource outlining principles for effective residential energy efficiency and electrification retrofits under the Inflation Reduction Act. It focuses on optimizing program design and implementation.
View Full ImageLifting the High Energy Burden in America's Largest Cities
A guide exploring how energy efficiency can improve the quality of life for low-income and underserved communities in America's largest cities, with a focus on California.
View Full ImageMaryland Department of Human Resources - Family Investment Administration Application for Assistance
An application form for assistance from the Maryland Department of Human Resources' Family Investment Administration.
View Full ImageReducing Energy Insecurity
An infographic highlighting various factors affecting energy affordability and accessibility, including age of housing, advanced building technology, health, economic conditions, and behavioral aspects.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Impact of LIHEAP on Low-Income Households in Maryland
6/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report evaluates the effects of the LIHEAP program on low-income households in Maryland, focusing on financial relief, energy security, and community support.
Source: Maryland Department of Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Rising Costs and Stagnant Wages: The Case for LIHEAP
1/10/2023 | Coverage: national
This national report analyzes the rising costs of living against stagnant wages and highlights the essential role of LIHEAP in mitigating these economic challenges.
Source: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Coverage Area: national
Understanding LIHEAP: Benefits Beyond Financial Assistance
11/22/2022 | Coverage: national
This report discusses how LIHEAP benefits extend beyond financial assistance, focusing on community building and stigma reduction among recipients.
Source: Energy Assistance Coalition
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
2/17/2009The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provided significant funding increases to LIHEAP as part of the broader economic stimulus effort.
Emergency Funding for Energy Costs
7/1/2001Congress allocated emergency funding for LIHEAP in response to rising energy costs following the energy crisis of the early 2000s.
Reauthorization of LIHEAP
4/1/1994LIHEAP was reauthorized by Congress, ensuring continued funding and support for the program.
Funding Increase
11/1/1986Congress increased funding for LIHEAP, acknowledging the growing energy crisis and the need for enhanced assistance to low-income households.
LIHEAP Established
10/1/1981The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was created under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act to assist low-income households in managing their energy costs.
FAQ
LIHEAP is a federal program that helps low-income households in Maryland pay their home energy bills. It is designed to assist families who may be struggling to meet their energy needs during extreme weather conditions, ensuring they can maintain a safe and healthy living environment. The program provides financial assistance for heating and cooling costs, as well as emergency assistance for households facing energy-related crises.
Reference: https://dhs.maryland.gov/energy-assistance/LIHEAP
Eligibility for LIHEAP in Maryland is primarily based on household income and size. To qualify, your household's income must be at or below 175% of the federal poverty level. Other factors, such as the number of people in the household and whether anyone is elderly or disabled, may also be considered. It's important to gather the necessary documents to verify your income and household composition when applying.
Before applying for LIHEAP assistance, ensure you have the following items:
- Proof of income for all household members
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Recent utility bills
- Identification documents (such as a driver's license or state ID)
Having these documents ready can help streamline your application process.
To apply for LIHEAP, follow these steps:
- Visit the Maryland Department of Human Services website to access the application.
- Fill out the application form completely and accurately.
- Submit the application along with all required documents by mail or in person.
- Follow up with your local office to check the status of your application.
Taking these actions can increase your chances of receiving assistance in a timely manner.
Reference: https://dhs.maryland.gov/energy-assistance/LIHEAP
Eligibility requirements and assistance levels may vary and are subject to change. Always refer to official resources for the most current information.
