Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy by assisting with energy costs
- Agency
- Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
- Type
- Federal Resource
- Phone
- Application Period
- Typically opens in October and may close when funds are depleted
- Income Limit
- Household income must not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy by assisting with energy costs.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps keep families safe and healthy by assisting with energy costs.
Eligibility Requirements
Must be a resident of Nebraska, meet income criteria, and be responsible for paying home heating and cooling costs.
Application Process
Applicants must apply through the local community action agency.
Required Documents
Proof of income, recent utility bills, proof of residency, identification documents
Images & PDFs
NATIONAL HOUSING TRUST FUND - National Low Income Housing Coalition
A guide providing information on various housing and community development policies, including the National Housing Trust Fund and issues like minimum wage and tax reform.
View Full ImageNortheast Nebraska Community Action Partnership Report
An informative snapshot of service area demographics and client needs, focusing on the Northeast Nebraska Community Action Partnership.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Combating Stigma: How LIHEAP Helps and Heals
8/30/2021 | Coverage: state
This report discusses the stigma associated with receiving LIHEAP aid and how community education and outreach can mitigate these perceptions while emphasizing the program's benefits.
Source: Nebraska Coalition for Health Equity
Coverage Area: state
Impact of LIHEAP on Low-Income Households in Nebraska
5/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report evaluates the positive impacts of the LIHEAP program on low-income households in Nebraska, highlighting its role in alleviating energy costs and reducing economic stress.
Source: Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
Coverage Area: state
The Importance of LIHEAP in Times of Rising Costs
3/20/2023 | Coverage: national
This national report outlines how rising living costs have increased the need for LIHEAP assistance, emphasizing the essential support it provides to vulnerable communities.
Source: National Energy Assistance Directors' Association
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
LIHEAP Flexibility
3/13/2014The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provided states with greater flexibility in the use of LIHEAP funds to address urgent needs.
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
2/17/2009The Act included significant funding for LIHEAP, allowing states to enhance their energy assistance programs.
LIHEAP Reauthorization
11/28/1990Congress reauthorized LIHEAP with expanded eligibility and benefits, responding to increased energy costs.
Establishment of LIHEAP
11/30/1981The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program was created to assist low-income households in meeting their immediate home energy needs.
FAQ
To apply for LIHEAP assistance, you can fill out the application online via the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website or obtain a paper application from your local LIHEAP office. It's important to ensure that the application is completed accurately and submitted with all required documentation to avoid delays in processing.
Reference: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/LIHEAP.aspx
Please note that processing times can vary, and submitting an application does not guarantee that you will receive assistance.
LIHEAP is a federally funded program designed to assist low-income households in meeting their home energy needs. The program provides financial assistance for heating and cooling costs, energy crisis situations, and energy-related home repairs. In Nebraska, LIHEAP is administered by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, which determines eligibility and the amount of assistance based on household income and energy costs.
Reference: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/LIHEAP.aspx
Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on federal guidelines and is subject to change annually.
To be eligible for LIHEAP in Nebraska, households must meet specific income guidelines based on the federal poverty level. Generally, applicants must have a gross income that does not exceed 150% of the poverty level for their household size. Additionally, the household must include a responsible person, and they must be residents of Nebraska. Certain types of assistance may also have additional eligibility criteria.
If you are preparing to apply for LIHEAP, here’s a helpful checklist to ensure you have everything ready:
- Proof of income for all household members (pay stubs, tax returns, etc.)
- Current energy bill (utility bill for heating or cooling)
- Identification for all household members (Social Security numbers, IDs)
- Documentation of any other assistance received (if applicable)
- Completed LIHEAP application form
Gathering these documents beforehand can streamline the application process.
To successfully apply for LIHEAP, follow these action items:
- Visit the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website to check for updates on eligibility and program changes.
- Fill out the LIHEAP application form available on the website.
- Contact your local LIHEAP office if you have questions about the application process.
- Submit your application and supporting documents before the deadline to ensure you receive assistance.
Taking these steps can help ensure your application is processed smoothly and efficiently.
Reference: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/LIHEAP.aspx
Assistance is limited based on funding availability, and applying does not guarantee assistance.
