Glossary · Programs & credentials
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
Also called: energy assistance
A federal program, run by states, tribes and territories, that helps lower-income households pay heating and cooling bills and avoid shutoffs.
What it means
LIHEAP is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services and delivered locally, so benefits, income limits and application dates vary by state. It can help with bills, energy emergencies and reconnections, and states may spend up to 15% of their funds (25% with a waiver) on low-cost weatherization and energy-related repairs. You apply through your state or local office; the federal program never charges a fee or gives grants directly to individuals.
Why it matters in an audit
LIHEAP eligibility can also qualify you for weatherization and for some utility and state rebate programs, so it's worth checking even if you plan upgrades.
Typical numbers
Reference values with their sources. Your auditor’s report gives the figure for your own house.
| What | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Federal income limit | Up to the greater of 150% of the poverty guidelines or 60% of state median income; states set their own limits but can't exclude households below 110% of poverty | law.cornell.edu ↗ |
| Automatic eligibility | Households receiving TANF, SSI, SNAP or certain veterans' benefits can qualify regardless of income | law.cornell.edu ↗ |
| Weatherization share | Up to 15% of a state's funds, or 25% with a federal waiver | law.cornell.edu ↗ |
| FY2026 funding | About $4.05 billion, after the administration had proposed eliminating the program | utilitydive.com ↗ |
| Finding your local office | National Energy Assistance Referral line 1-866-674-6327, or energyhelp.us | acf.gov ↗ |