Heating Assistance / LIHEAP

Applications for LIHEAP are now closed. Applications for next year will begin November 2019. 

About the program

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps families living on low incomes pay their heating bills in the form of a cash grant. Households in immediate danger of being without heat can also qualify for crisis grants.  The cash grant is a one-time payment sent directly to the utility company/fuel provider to be credited on your bill. These grants range from $200 to $1,000 based on household size, income, and fuel type. Remember: This is a grant and does not have to be repaid. 
   

Apply

There are three ways to apply for LIHEAP:

  • Online: Apply for benefits online using COMPASS, the online tool for Pennsylvanians to apply for health and human service programs and manage benefit information.
  • On Paper: You can download a paper application, print it, fill it out, and return it to your local county assistance office.
    • HSEA 1-LIHEAP application-  English
    • HSEA 1-LIHEAP application- Español
  • In person: Visit your local county assistance office to fill out an application. 

 After your application is reviewed, you will receive written notice explaining your eligibility and the amount of assistance you will receive. Please allow 30 days for a response.

 

Eligibility

  • You must meet income guidelines
  • You don't have to be on public assistance
  • You don't need to have an unpaid heating bills
  • You can rent or own your home   

 

Crisis Grants

Households experiencing a heating crisis may be eligible for additional benefits through the LIHEAP crisis program. Emergency situations include:

  • Broken heating equipment or leaking lines that must be fixed or replaced
  • Lack of fuel
  • The main heating source or second heating source (a source that is used to operate the main heating source or used if the main heating source is not working) has been completely shut-off
  • Danger of being without fuel (less than a 15 day supply)
  • Danger of having utility service terminated (you've received a notice that service will be shut off within the next 60 days)

 

Contact us

For more information about LIHEAP, please contact your county assistance office, or call the LIHEAP hotline at 1-866-857-7095, Monday through Friday. Individuals with hearing impairments may call 711.

Assistance with home heating crisis situations is available 24 hours a day. In most counties, you should contact your county assistance office.

However, residents of Luzerne and Wyoming counties are encouraged to directly contact:

  • Luzerne  - Commission on Economic Opportunity of Luzerne Co., 1-800-822-0359;
  • Wyoming - Commission on Economic Opportunity of Wyoming Co., 570-836-4090.

  

More information

 

Tips and resources for staying warm

Turn down. Seal off. Save up: Home heating costs are a big part of a household budget. With a little planning, you’ll be better protected from the cold.