---
title: "LIHEAP: Help With Heating and Cooling Bills"
description: "LIHEAP helps pay heating and cooling bills, and some states use it to stop shutoffs. Who qualifies, how to apply and what to do if funds run out."
url: https://neededcash.com/assistance/liheap/
updated: 2026-10-10
site: NeededCash
---

Energy bill help

# LIHEAP: help paying heating and cooling bills

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is federal money that states and local agencies hand out, usually as a payment straight to your utility.

Quick answer

LIHEAP pays part of heating or cooling costs for households with low incomes, usually by sending the money directly to the utility or fuel company. States set their own limits within federal rules, which allow up to 150% of the federal poverty level or 60% of state median income. Most states also run crisis help for shutoff notices or empty fuel tanks. Apply through your state or local LIHEAP office.

## How to apply

1. **Find your local office.** HHS lists each state's LIHEAP contact; the National Energy Assistance Referral line can also point you to it.
2. **Have your bills ready.** A recent energy bill, proof of income for the household and ID.
3. **Mention any shutoff notice.** Crisis help moves faster and may have separate funding.
4. **Apply early in the season.** Funds are limited and some states close when money runs out.

## Common questions

### Does LIHEAP pay the whole bill?

Usually not. It pays a portion, based on income, household size and energy costs. Some states add crisis payments.

### Can renters get LIHEAP if heat is in the rent?

In many states, yes. Renters with utilities included in rent can sometimes get a smaller benefit. Ask your local office.

### Does getting SNAP mean I qualify for LIHEAP?

In many states, households on SNAP, SSI or TANF can be treated as income eligible. Check your state's rules.

## Where these facts come from

- [HHS: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)](https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap)
- [HHS: EnergyHelp.us, where to apply for LIHEAP](https://www.energyhelp.us/)
- [HHS: poverty guidelines](https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines)
- [211.org: local help with rent, food and bills](https://www.211.org/)

Sources checked October 10, 2026. Programs and rules change; confirm details with the agency or company before you act.

## Disclosures

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**Rates and terms.** Each lender sets its own rates, fees, and terms and will disclose them in writing as required by the federal Truth in Lending Act before you sign. Personal and installment loans from lenders in our network typically carry APRs from about 5.99% to 35.99% with terms from 3 to 84 months. Representative example: a $5,000 loan over 36 months at 15.99% APR has 36 payments of $175.76 and a total cost of $6,327.36.

## Keep going

- [Electric bill help](https://neededcash.com/situations/help-paying-electric-bill/)
- [Weatherization assistance](https://neededcash.com/assistance/weatherization-assistance/)

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Canonical page: https://neededcash.com/assistance/liheap/