Additional Heating Assistance Beyond LIHEAP

LIHEAP is the best-known source of help with heating bills, but it isn’t the only one. If you don’t qualify, if your state’s funds run out, or if the benefit doesn’t stretch across the whole winter, these other options may help you stay warm.

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Programs from your utility company

Many electric and gas companies offer their own assistance to customers who are having a hard time paying. Ask your utility about:

• Payment plans that break a past-due balance into smaller monthly payments.
• Budget billing, which averages your yearly cost across all twelve months so winter bills don’t jump.
• Low-income discount rates or bill credits, in places where your state or utility provides them.
• Customer hardship funds, which are often run together with local charities.

The LIHEAP Clearinghouse posts a state-by-state snapshot listing utility, state and charitable energy programs, which is a helpful way to see what is offered where you live.

Winter shutoff protections

In many states, utilities face limits on shutoffs during the coldest months for certain households, such as older adults or families with young children, or must offer a payment plan before cutting service. The rules, dates and covered groups differ from state to state. If you receive a shutoff notice, call your utility to ask which protections apply to you, and reach out to your local LIHEAP office about crisis assistance.

Weatherization and home heating credits

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program helps eligible households make their homes more energy efficient, which can reduce bills for years to come. Applications go through local agencies.

Before you agree to any home improvement offer, make sure it comes from your state’s official weatherization agency. Official programs do not charge an application fee.

Some states provide heating help in different ways. In Michigan, for instance, the state Treasury handles heating assistance through the Home Heating Credit, which can be claimed even without filing a tax return.

Simple ways to lower your heating bill

• Turn the thermostat down a few degrees at night and while no one is home.
• Hold the warmth in: draw the curtains at night and open them when the sun is out.
• Seal drafts around doors and windows using inexpensive weatherstripping.
• Get the furnace serviced and replace filters so the system doesn’t burn extra fuel.
• Take care with space heaters: keep them clear of curtains and furniture, and never leave them running while you sleep.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get LIHEAP and utility help at the same time?
Often, yes. Utility programs and LIHEAP are separate, and many households use both. Review the rules for each one.

Where can I find a list of programs in my state?
The LIHEAP Clearinghouse state snapshots and USA.gov each list energy assistance by state. You can also call the National Energy Assistance Referral line at 1-866-674-6327.

Is there a phone line for general questions?
USAGov answers questions about federal programs at 1-844-872-4681.

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This page is for information only and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Department of Energy, any state agency or any utility. Program rules, availability and dates are set by each provider and can change. Sources: LIHEAP Clearinghouse (HHS/ACF), USA.gov, Michigan program information in the LIHEAP Clearinghouse.