LIHEAP
What LIHEAP pays for, the federal income limits states work within, automatic eligibility, and a calculator to check your household.
LIHEAP income eligibility calculator
What LIHEAP is
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is federally funded and run by states, tribes and territories. It helps pay heating and cooling bills, energy crises such as shutoff notices, and weatherization. Applications, eligibility rules, benefit types and amounts vary a lot by state (ACF), so apply through your state or local LIHEAP office.
LIHEAP income limits
Federal law (42 U.S.C. 8624) caps eligibility at the greater of 150% of the poverty level or 60% of the state median income. States can set lower limits but can't exclude a household on income alone if it's under 110% of the poverty level. Households where someone gets SSI, SNAP, TANF or certain means-tested veterans benefits can be eligible automatically. The calculator uses the 2026 HHS poverty guideline for the 48 contiguous states and DC: $15,960 for one person plus $5,680 for each additional person ($33,000 for a family of four). Alaska and Hawaii have higher guidelines, and your state may still be using last year's figures.
Get help budgeting bills with the budget calculator, and see what other benefits you may get in supplemental security income.
Common questions
What is the LIHEAP income limit?
Under federal law, the greater of 150% of the poverty level or 60% of state median income; states can set lower limits.
How do I apply for LIHEAP?
Through your state or local LIHEAP office; rules vary by state.
Am I automatically eligible for LIHEAP?
Households getting SSI, SNAP, TANF or certain veterans benefits can be.
Sources
- ACF: LIHEAP fact sheet
- ACF: LIHEAP program
- 42 U.S.C. 8624 (Cornell LII)
- Federal Register: 2026 HHS poverty guidelines
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General information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Check important numbers with the official source before acting on them.