As energy prices continue to rise, the cost of heating your home is getting increasingly more expensive. since last year, Electricity prices increased by nearly 15% and natural gas prices by about 25%. (Opens in a new tab). Overall, it is estimated that between 2020 and 2023, the cost of household energy will increase by more than 35% (Opens in a new tab). Therefore, many are looking for ways to save on energy costs as temperatures start to drop.
If you are finding it hard to afford your heating bill this winter, the Drop your thermostat (Opens in a new tab) Just doesn’t cut it, you may qualify for energy assistance. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced $4.5 billion in heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The money is designed to “cut costs and give working and middle-class American families more breathing room,” says A.J Statement from the government. (Opens in a new tab)
The money will go to states, territories and tribes to subsidize home heating costs and cover unpaid utility bills. The money will also be used to help families make affordable home energy repairs that will lower their energy bills.
“For more than 40 years, this program has helped low-income families pay their home heating and cooling bills.” HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said (Opens in a new tab). “With heating costs increasing, it is more important than ever to help families who are struggling to make ends meet. With this funding, we will help protect the health and well-being of Americans by keeping them safe and warm this winter.”
How to apply for help
To receive benefits, you must need financial assistance with home energy costs. In addition, your family’s annual income must be less than a certain amount as well, which can be determined by Eligibility chart below (Opens in a new tab).
| family size | Maximum annual income level |
|---|---|
| 1 | $20,385 |
| 2 | $27,465 |
| 3 | $34,545 |
| 4 | $41,625 |
| 5 | $48,705 |
| 6 | $55,785 |
| 7 | $62,865 |
| 8 | $69,945 |
If your household has more than eight people, add $7,080 for each additional person to determine your household’s annual income limit.
If you or your family members also participate in other benefit programs, such as SNAP or SSI, you may be automatically eligible.
If you think you qualify for energy assistance through LIHEAP, you will have to apply through your state. However, the LIHEAP web site (Opens in a new tab) Conveniently lists the appropriate contact information for each state. If you need more information about the program, you may also contact the National Energy Assistance Referral Project (NEAR) via email at energy@ncat.org. They will be able to help you apply for LIHEAP.
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