Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
The North Dakota Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible individuals and families with heating and insulation-related costs in the winter, and cooling costs in the summer
- Agency
- North Dakota Department of Human Services
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 701-328-2332, 800-755-2716
- Application Period
- Typically opens in October each year
- Income Limit
- Household income must not exceed 60% of the state median income
The North Dakota Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible individuals and families with heating and insulation-related costs in the winter, and cooling costs in the summer. Last year about 14,200 low-income households in North Dakota participated in the state program, and individual tribal LIHEAP programs served tribal members living on reservations in the state.
The North Dakota Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible individuals and families with heating and insulation-related costs in the winter, and cooling costs in the summer. Last year about 14,200 low-income households in North Dakota participated in the state program, and individual tribal LIHEAP programs served tribal members living on reservations in the state.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be residents of North Dakota, meet income criteria, and be responsible for paying home heating costs.
Application Process
Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or through local county social services offices.
Required Documents
Proof of income, ID, utility bills, and proof of residence.
Additional Information
Emergency assistance is available for households in immediate danger of being without heat.
Images & PDFs
Historic and Older Homes: EPA Archives
An educational visual outlining common air leaks in older homes, aimed at helping homeowners assess energy efficiency issues. It provides detailed diagrams of potential air leakage areas to assist in improving home energy usage.
View Full ImageNATIONAL HOUSING TRUST FUND Advocates' Guide
A guide from the National Low Income Housing Coalition covering housing and financial topics relevant to low-income individuals, such as homelessness, minimum wage, and housing tax reform.
View Full ImageState of North Dakota Weatherization Assistance Plan
A document outlining North Dakota's weatherization assistance plan aimed at reducing energy costs for low-income households through energy efficiency improvements.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
Impact of Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program on North Dakota Families
5/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report outlines the significant benefits that the LIHEAP program provides to low-income families in North Dakota, including financial relief and improved energy efficiency.
Source: North Dakota Department of Human Services
Coverage Area: state
The Rising Need for Energy Assistance Amid Economic Challenges
1/10/2023 | Coverage: national
This national report examines the growing necessity for energy assistance programs due to stagnant wages and rising living costs, including specific case studies from various states.
Source: National Association of Policymakers
Coverage Area: national
Understanding LIHEAP: More Than Just a Handout
4/22/2023 | Coverage: national
This report addresses common misconceptions surrounding LIHEAP, demonstrating how assistance empowers families rather than promoting dependency.
Source: Urban Institute
Coverage Area: national
Program Timeline
COVID-19 Relief Legislation
12/27/2020Included provisions to provide additional funding for LIHEAP in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Expansion of Program Benefits
1/1/2014Changes in program guidelines allowed for more comprehensive benefits for households with higher energy costs.
ARRA Funding Boost
2/17/2009The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act allocated additional funding to LIHEAP to support energy assistance during the economic crisis.
Reauthorization of LIHEAP
10/1/1994LIHEAP was reauthorized, increasing funding and expanding eligibility criteria.
Establishment of LIHEAP
11/30/1981The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was established to help low-income households with their energy costs.
FAQ
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in North Dakota is a federally funded program that assists eligible low-income households in paying their home heating costs and, in some cases, cooling costs. The program is designed to help families who are struggling to meet their energy needs and ensure they remain safe and comfortable in their homes during extreme temperatures.
Reference: https://www.nd.gov/dhs/services/energy/LIHEAP.html
LIHEAP provides various types of assistance including heating assistance, emergency assistance for those facing utility shut-offs, and assistance with cooling costs during the warmer months. The program can help pay for direct energy bills, and in some cases, may assist with energy-related repairs to heating and cooling systems.
Reference: https://www.nd.gov/dhs/services/energy/LIHEAP.html
Assistance types may vary seasonally and are dependant on federal funding allocations.
Eligibility for LIHEAP assistance is primarily based on household income and the size of the household. Households must have an income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, or be enrolled in certain government assistance programs. Additionally, the program considers the type of housing, the presence of vulnerable individuals such as elderly or disabled persons, and the specific energy needs of the household.
To determine if you are eligible for LIHEAP assistance, please use the following checklist:
- Your household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level.
- You must reside in North Dakota.
- You need to have an active utility account.
- Your household includes individuals who are elderly, disabled, or young children.
- You may need to provide proof of your income and other relevant documents.
Make sure to gather all necessary documentation to support your eligibility application.
To apply for LIHEAP assistance, please follow these action items:
- Visit the official LIHEAP website for North Dakota.
- Download and fill out the application form.
- Gather necessary documents, such as proof of income and energy bills.
- Submit your application to your local LIHEAP office.
- Follow up with your local office to ensure your application has been received and is being processed.
By completing these steps, you can ensure that your application is properly submitted for review.
Reference: https://www.nd.gov/dhs/services/energy/LIHEAP.html
LIHEAP assistance is subject to availability of funds and program guidelines.
