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 and Human Services
- Type
- Federal Program
- Phone
- Application Period
- Typically opens in November and may extend to March
- Income Limit
- Income must be at or below 175% of the federal poverty level
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.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must be Ohio residents and meet income criteria
Application Process
Applications can be submitted through local LIHEAP agencies, often found in community action agencies
Required Documents
Proof of income, recent utility bills, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency, Social Security numbers for all household members
Additional Information
Benefits may vary based on household income, family size, and the fuel type used for heating
Images & PDFs
2022 State Plan for Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) Ohio
This document outlines the state plan for the Home Weatherization Assistance Program in Ohio for 2022, providing information on the program's goals, eligibility, and implementation strategies to assist low-income individuals in weatherizing their homes.
View Full ImageHealth Impact Assessments - National Center for Healthy Housing
An informative guide visualizing how housing quality, affordability, and community attributes affect health. It aims to educate users on the broader determinants of health linked to housing.
View Full ImageImpact Reports
LIHEAP: A Lifeline for Ohio Families in Crisis
1/10/2023 | Coverage: N/A
This report provides a comprehensive overview of how LIHEAP serves as a vital resource for families facing economic hardship in Ohio, emphasizing its role in preventing homelessness and energy insecurity.
Reducing the Stigma of Seeking Energy Assistance
11/5/2020 | Coverage: national
This report addresses the stigma associated with receiving aid through programs like LIHEAP, providing strategies to help normalize seeking assistance and highlighting success stories from beneficiaries.
Source: National Low Income Housing Coalition
Coverage Area: national
Rising Costs and the Need for Energy Assistance: A Study of Ohio Households
8/22/2021 | Coverage: N/A
This study explores the correlation between rising living costs in Ohio and the increasing need for energy assistance programs like LIHEAP, emphasizing the importance of these resources in the current economic climate.
Source: Ohio Energy Assistance Coalition
The Impact of LIHEAP on Low-Income Households in Ohio
3/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report analyzes the positive effects of the LIHEAP program on low-income households in Ohio, highlighting how financial assistance helps families maintain utility services and improve their quality of life.
Source: Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
Funding Increase in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
12/17/2010The ARRA allocated additional funding to LIHEAP in response to the economic downturn.
Implementation of the Energy Policy Act
7/1/2000The Energy Policy Act included provisions that enhanced funding for LIHEAP, recognizing the increasing energy costs.
LIHEAP Reauthorization
11/28/1990LIHEAP was reauthorized with increased funding levels to better assist low-income households.
Emergency Home Energy Assistance Program (EHEAP) Created
11/30/1983EHEAP was established to provide emergency assistance to households facing energy crises.
LIHEAP Established
9/30/1981The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was created under the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act to assist low-income households with their energy costs.
FAQ
You can apply for LIHEAP in Ohio by visiting your local Community Action Agency (CAA) or applying online through the Ohio Department of Development's website. Applications are typically accepted from November through April, but it is advisable to apply early to ensure timely assistance.
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Ohio provides financial assistance to low-income households to help them pay their energy bills, ensuring that residents have access to essential heating and cooling services. This program aims to reduce the burden of energy costs on low-income families, particularly during extreme weather conditions.
Reference: https://development.ohio.gov/is/is_energyassistance.htm
To be eligible for LIHEAP assistance in Ohio, households must meet certain income criteria, typically at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of residency, a social security number for each household member, and details about their energy expenses. Special consideration is given to households with elderly individuals, children, or disabled members.
To determine your eligibility for LIHEAP assistance, consider the following checklist:
- Check if your household income is at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines.
- Gather proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
- Prepare social security numbers for all household members.
- Document your current energy expenses, including past bills.
Reviewing this checklist will help you ensure you have the necessary information to apply for LIHEAP assistance.
Here are some action items to take if you think you qualify for LIHEAP:
- Visit the Ohio Department of Development's website to find application details.
- Contact your local energy assistance provider for specific guidance.
- Complete and submit the LIHEAP application along with required documents.
- Keep track of your application status and follow up if necessary.
Taking these action steps can facilitate your application process and help you access the assistance you need.
Reference: https://development.ohio.gov/is/is_energyassistance.htm
Eligibility and assistance levels may vary based on funding availability and specific household circumstances.
