Low-Income Energy Assistance
LIEAP, or Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, helps pay down utility bills so heat stays on in the home during the coldest months of the year when it can be hard to control heating costs
- Agency
- Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
- Type
- State Program
- Phone
- 1-833-317-1080
- Application Period
- Typically opens in October and runs until funds are exhausted or the end of April
- Income Limit
- Household income must be at or below 60% of the state median income
LIEAP, or Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, helps pay down utility bills so heat stays on in the home during the coldest months of the year when it can be hard to control heating costs. LIEAP does not pay money directly to applicants.
LIEAP, or Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, helps pay down utility bills so heat stays on in the home during the coldest months of the year when it can be hard to control heating costs. LIEAP does not pay money directly to applicants.
Eligibility Requirements
Must be a Montana resident and financially responsible for heating costs
Application Process
Apply online, via mail, or in person at a local LIEAP office
Required Documents
Proof of income, recent utility bills, proof of residence
Images & PDFs
Impact Reports
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program: Impact Assessment
4/15/2022 | Coverage: national
This report evaluates the impacts of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) across various states, including Montana, showcasing its benefits in reducing energy insecurity and improving quality of life for participants.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Coverage Area: national
Montana's Energy Assistance Program: Bridging the Gap
1/10/2023 | Coverage: state
This report highlights the effectiveness of Montana's energy assistance initiatives, particularly in the context of rising living costs and stagnant wages, demonstrating how they provide crucial support to vulnerable populations.
Source: Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Coverage Area: state
Understanding Energy Assistance: Challenges and Opportunities
8/5/2021 | Coverage: national
This comprehensive study discusses the socio-economic factors influencing energy assistance programs and their critical role in addressing poverty and energy insecurity.
Source: National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
Recent Reauthorization of LIHEAP
12/20/2019Congress reauthorized funding for LIHEAP, ensuring continued support for low-income households across the nation.
Increase in LIHEAP Funding
8/1/2001Congress passed a bill that significantly increased funding for LIHEAP to address rising energy costs.
LIHEAP Amendments
11/28/1990Amendments to the LIHEAP statute expanded eligibility criteria and increased funding allocations for the program.
FAQ
You can apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program in Montana by completing an application form available online or at local assistance offices. It's important to follow the instructions carefully and submit all required documentation to avoid delays in processing your application.
Here are some important steps to take when applying:
- Visit the official Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services website.
- Download or fill out the online application form.
- Gather all necessary documents including proof of income and residence.
- Submit the application either through the website, by mail, or in person at a local office.
Following these steps will help ensure a smoother application process.
Reference: https://dphhs.mt.gov/energyassistance
To apply for Low-Income Energy Assistance in Montana, applicants will need to provide several key documents to verify their eligibility. These documents typically include proof of income, identification, utility bills, and information about the household members.
Before applying, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Proof of income for all household members (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns)
- Valid identification (e.g., driver's license, state ID)
- Recent utility bills (heating and cooling)
- Social Security numbers for all household members
Having these documents prepared can streamline your application process.
Reference: https://dphhs.mt.gov/energyassistance
Low-Income Energy Assistance is a program designed to help eligible low-income households in Montana manage their energy costs. The program provides financial assistance to help pay for heating and cooling bills, as well as energy-related home repairs. This assistance is crucial for families who may struggle to meet their energy needs, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Reference: https://dphhs.mt.gov/energyassistance
Eligibility for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program is based on several factors including income level, household size, and the type of energy source used for heating and cooling. Generally, households that fall at or below 150% of the federal poverty level may qualify for assistance. Additional considerations may include age, disability status, and whether the household includes children.
Reference: https://dphhs.mt.gov/energyassistance
