Applications being taken for energy assistance program
The application period started this week for the 2026-27 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a federal program that provides grants for eligible households to help pay energy bills.
Payments are made directly to an applicant’s utility company or fuel provider. LIHEAP grants are limited and awarded on a first-come, first served basis. The minimum cash grant is $200 and the maximum cash grant is $1,000. Households may receive one cash grant per LIHEAP season.
According to Steve DeFrank, chairman of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, “LIHEAP is one of the strongest tools we have to help Pennsylvania families stay warm and manage their energy bills. We encourage anyone who may be struggling to apply early and also reach out to their utilities. When families use LIHEAP together with the many options available through utility assistance programs, they have a clearer path to staying safe and connected.”
Crisis grants are also available through the LIHEAP program. Those eligible must meet certain income guidelines, have had their heating service cut off or be in jeopardy of that happening, are out of fuel or have less than two weeks of deliverable fuel. The minimum crisis grant is $25 and the maximum grant is $1,000. If households experience more than one emergency per LIHEAP season, they can apply for and be eligible for more than one crisis grant.
Last year, about 400,000 households in Pennsylvania received either cash or crisis grants through the LIHEAP program. Individuals and families are eligible if their incomes are at or below 150% of the federal poverty limit – for an individual, that would be an income of $23,940 per year, and $49,500 for a family of four.
Many utility companies also offer programs that can reduce monthly bills and extend debt forgiveness. Pennsylvania’s winter utility shutoff moratorium will begin Dec. 1, and will prevent regulated electric and gas utilities from ending service to households at or below 250% of the federal poverty level.
“As colder weather approaches, we want our customers to know that help with heating bills is available,” said Rita Black, director of community assistance programs with Peoples Natural Gas. “Many people are surprised to learn they qualify, so we encourage customers to review the income guidelines and see if they are eligible.”
Applications for LIHEAP are available at dhs.pa.gov/COMPASS. A paper application is also available by calling the LIHEAP helpline at 866-857-7095. More information on the program is available at dhs.pa.gov/liheap.