A federal program that helps with heating and cooling bills — free to apply in your state.
Free to apply. We never ask for your SSN.You will stay on the same site.
How LIHEAP Works in 2026 📋
💵 Funds Go Directly to Your Utility
LIHEAP credits your utility bill directly — it's not a check to you.
LIHEAP sends help straight to your utility company as a credit on your bill — you never handle the money yourself. Congress approved $4.045 billion for FY 2026, and all funds are already with the states. Many households that use Assurance Wireless or SafeLink Wireless for their phone plan also qualify for LIHEAP — the income thresholds overlap significantly. If you bank with Chime or keep your money on a NetSpend prepaid card, that does not affect eligibility. Applying is 100% free through your state LIHEAP office or local community action agency. Visit energyhelp.us to find your nearest office in under two minutes.
⚠️ Cooling Funds Are Running Out Fast
Some states have run out of cooling funds. First-come, first-served.
New York's free air conditioner program ran out in the first week of June 2026 — and other states are close behind. Summer electricity spending is projected at around $792 per household in 2026, up 10.5% from last year. Low-income families relying on TruConnect or Q Link Wireless Lifeline phone service often share the same income bracket that qualifies for cooling assistance. Households that use Wells Fargo or manage spending with a Walmart MoneyCard prepaid card can still apply — no specific bank account is required. Heating season applications open around October–November 2026 and are also first-come, first-served. The earlier you apply, the better your chances before funds run out in your state.
Where to Apply and How It Pays 🏦
LIHEAP does not deposit money into your bank account — the benefit goes directly to your utility provider as a bill credit. That means it does not matter whether you bank with Chime, Wells Fargo, or keep funds on a NetSpend prepaid card. Some states do issue direct payments for deliverable fuels like propane or heating oil; in those cases, Chime's no-fee direct deposit can be handy. No bank account is required to apply. If anyone asks for your bank details to "release" LIHEAP funds, that is a scam — real LIHEAP applications are always free and handled only by your state agency or a local community action agency.
Managing household money on Cash App, Venmo, or Chime is common for lower-income families — and none of those choices affect your LIHEAP eligibility. The standard benefit is a credit applied directly to your energy bill, so there is nothing to transfer or deposit. If your state issues a direct payment for fuel deliveries, a Cash App bank account or Bank of America checking account can receive it. Use the free NEAR hotline at 1-866-674-6327 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. ET) or visit energyhelp.us to find where and how to apply in your state at no cost.
Other Programs You May Qualify For 📌
If you qualify for LIHEAP, you may also be eligible for these programs — the income rules overlap, and getting one does not reduce the others. Check each before you apply.
SNAP
Food assistance for families
Check eligibility ➔Medicaid
Low-cost health coverage
Check eligibility ➔WIC
Nutrition help for moms & kids
Check eligibility ➔TANF
Cash aid for families
Check eligibility ➔Check if you qualify
Answer one question and we show you the requirements for help with your energy bill.
Indicative only. Eligibility is decided by your state LIHEAP office.
SEE THE REQUIREMENTSFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I apply for LIHEAP assistance in my state?
You do not apply federally — every state runs its own LIHEAP program. The fastest way to find your local office is to visit energyhelp.us or call the free NEAR hotline at 1-866-674-6327 (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. ET). You can also dial 211 for free local referrals. Many households that already receive benefits through programs like SNAP, SSI, or TANF may skip income verification in most states. Applying through your state agency or community action agency is always free — you will never need to pay a fee or give anyone your bank details. If someone claims you need to pay to "unlock" LIHEAP, that is a scam. Carriers like TruConnect and SafeLink Wireless Lifeline participants often share the same income level that qualifies for LIHEAP, so it is worth checking even if you think you may not qualify.
How much can I receive and when will the benefit be applied to my bill?
There is no single national dollar amount — each state sets its own benefit based on your household size, income, fuel type, and energy burden. What is confirmed for 2026: Congress appropriated $4.045 billion and all funds are already with the states. In most cases the benefit appears as a credit on your utility bill within 30 to 60 days after your application is processed — you will not receive cash. Some states offer separate crisis or emergency benefits to stop a disconnection. Average U.S. household summer electricity spending is projected at around $792 in 2026. Whether you pay your bills through Wells Fargo, manage spending with a Chime account, or reload a Walmart MoneyCard each month, the LIHEAP credit goes directly to your energy provider. Check your state's office for the exact benefit table.
I applied weeks ago but haven't heard back — what should I do?
Processing times vary by state, but most applications take 30 to 60 days. First, contact the agency where you applied — your state LIHEAP office or local community action agency. You can use energyhelp.us to find that contact information again, or call the NEAR hotline at 1-866-674-6327. Have your application confirmation number ready if you received one. If you use Assurance Wireless or Q Link Wireless for phone service and need a free way to call, both carriers include Lifeline minutes for exactly these situations. Remember: receiving LIHEAP does not reduce your SNAP, SSI, or any other benefit, so there is no downside to following up. If you have not heard back after 60 days, ask your state agency about their appeals or review process.
Fuentes Oficiales 🏛️
Disclaimer: This site provides information about government assistance programs. We are not affiliated with HHS, ACF, or any government agency. Brands mentioned are independent services. Applying for LIHEAP is free — see energyhelp.us or your state agency.