In 1981, congress passed a bill to assist households with home energy costs due to rising energy prices in the 1970’s. The program is intended to provide financial assistance to households

that meet income guidelines (60 % of State Median Income) and have an energy burden whether you rent or own your home. 

How do I apply for energy assistance? Applications can be requested directly through your local service provider or can be obtained at the Department of Commerce website, Energy Assistance Program / Minnesota Department of Commerce - Energy (mn.gov). These applications can be mailed or there is a fillable PDF application that can be completed and submitted to the service provider either by mail, email, or fax.  The DOC is has just launched an on-line application, which you can find here: Home · Energy Assistance Program (state.mn.us).

You will need to provide documents as part of your application.  To expedite the processing, the required documents should be submitted with the application. You should be prepared to provide the following:

• Your name and current contact information and address
• Names and social security numbers or alternative ID numbers such as permanent resident, I-94 or I-766, of all people residing in your home as of the date of your application
• Household income and documents to verify income (EAP looks at the prior three months of income from the signature date of your application)
• Names of the utilities that provide heat and electricity to your home, along with account numbers

Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program is federally funded through Health and Human Services and is administered by the Department of Commerce through partnerships with service providers throughout the state, including tribal governments and local non-profit organizations. If you are uncertain how to find the service provider for your service location, feel free to contact our office or visit the Department of Commerce website.