With winter approaching, millions of low-income families can apply for LIHEAP — the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program — to help pay heating bills. However, the program faces serious uncertainty this year: the Trump administration proposed completely eliminating LIHEAP from the federal budget for fiscal year 2027, and Congress has not yet passed a final budget.
The most important thing to know right now is that fiscal year 2026 funds have already been distributed to states and the program is still running. If you need help with heating this winter, you can and should apply as soon as possible — funds are limited and many states run out before the season ends.
What LIHEAP is and how much it provides
LIHEAP is a federal program that helps families pay their energy bills: heating in winter, cooling in summer, and in some cases emergency repairs to heating or cooling systems. Benefits vary widely by state, household size, and income, but can range from about $200 to more than $1,500 per season.
It is not a monthly benefit like SNAP — it is a one-time payment or direct payment to the utility company that covers part of the bill or fuel cost. In many states, if you already receive SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or TANF, you automatically qualify for LIHEAP without having to prove your income again.
How to apply for LIHEAP this winter
The program is administered by states and counties, not the federal government directly. To apply you have several options. The fastest is to call 211 — the social services number available nationwide — and ask for the LIHEAP agency in your area. You can also find your local agency in the official federal government directory at liheap.acf.hhs.gov. Many states have online application forms; others require an in-person appointment.
Documents you will typically need include: a photo ID, proof of household income, a recent energy bill, and documentation of household members. If you already receive SNAP or SSI, bring that documentation too as it can simplify the process.
The threat to eliminate LIHEAP in 2027
The Trump administration included zero dollars for LIHEAP in its fiscal year 2027 budget proposal — meaning complete elimination of the program. This is not new: the same proposal was made in previous years and Congress has always maintained funding. This year, the House Appropriations Subcommittee approved a bill in June that keeps LIHEAP at $4.055 billion — even $10 million more than last year — but that budget has not yet been passed by the full Congress.
With the midterm elections on November 3, the new Congress taking office in January will need to decide the final budget. Lawmakers from both parties, including House Appropriations Committee Chair Republican Tom Cole, have opposed eliminating the program, which provides some reassurance. But uncertainty remains, which is why it is important to apply now while 2026 funds are available, rather than waiting for the budget debate to be resolved.
Who qualifies for LIHEAP
Eligibility criteria are set by states within limits established by the federal government. In general, to qualify a household must have income below 150% of the federal poverty level or below 60% of the state’s median income, whichever is higher. For a family of four, that is roughly $45,000 per year or less, though the exact figure varies by state.
Priority is given to households with residents over age 60, people with disabilities, or children under age 6, as well as those with very high energy bills relative to their income.
When applications open
Most states open applications for heating assistance between October and November, just before the cold season begins. Some states distribute funds on a first-come, first-served basis, so applying early increases your chances of receiving help. Call 211 or check your state’s social services website for the exact opening date in your area.