If you need assistance paying your energy bills, there are benefits available. One of those, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), can help keep your family safe and comfortable through the upcoming winter season.
What is LIHEAP?
LIHEAP may go by a different name depending on your state, but it assists income-eligible households with heating and cooling costs, bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance and weatherization and energy-related home repairs. The program is federally funded and administered by your state. Minnesota's program is handled through the Minnesota Commerce Department and managed through local energy assistance partners.
How does it work?
LIHEAP benefits last for one year, and there are two types — regular and emergency.
With regular benefits, the program will offer financial assistance for heating and cooling bills, and your household will be required to pay a portion of that bill. Emergency benefits quickly assist households whose utilities are at risk of being shut off or have already been disconnected.
Payments for energy bills are sent directly to the household’s energy company or to a provider of fuel like propane, fuel oil or wood. Initial benefits average $550 per household and can be up to $1,400, depending on household income and fuel costs.
Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program is federally funded and administered by the Department of Commerce, which works with local service providers throughout the state.
How do I know if I'm qualified?
Eligibility is based on income and household size. For example, a family of four could earn up to $68,845 annually and qualify to receive financial assistance with energy bills. Your household may automatically qualify if a family member participates in another benefit program.
How do I apply?
You can complete the application in person, online or by mail. The documents and information you'll need to fill out the application differ depending on which benefits you're applying for.
Request an application by mail or apply online at the Minnesota Commerce Department. Funds are limited and the program is first come, first serve.
Find your local Energy Assistance Partner
So, what's next?
The approval process time is 30 days for regular benefits and 48 hours for emergency assistance. You must continue to pay your full energy bill while you wait for approval and continue to pay a portion of it if you're approved. LIHEAP benefits will start within 15 days of approval.