Arkansas residents who need help paying heating or cooling bills can apply for LIHEAP, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. The program is funded by the federal government but run locally through a network of 15 community-based organizations (CBOs) that together cover all 75 Arkansas counties. Eligibility is based on household income and size, and benefits can pay for regular energy bills as well as crisis situations like an imminent shutoff or loss of heat in winter.
What Is Arkansas LIHEAP?
LIHEAP is a federally funded block grant program administered in Arkansas by the Arkansas Department of Energy and Environment (ADEQ). It reduces the energy burden on low-income households by providing direct payments to utility companies or heating fuel vendors on behalf of approved applicants.
Arkansas LIHEAP offers two types of assistance:
- Regular Assistance: A fixed benefit based on household income, size, and energy source. Available through March 31, 2026 for the current winter program.
- Crisis Assistance: A higher benefit for households facing disconnection or without heat or cooling. Available through April 30, 2026, or until funds are exhausted.
Arkansas received approximately $35.1 million in LIHEAP funding for fiscal year 2026.
2026 Income Limits for Arkansas LIHEAP
Arkansas sets its LIHEAP income limit at 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The table below shows the income thresholds by household size using 2026 HHS poverty guidelines.
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 person | $22,590 | $1,883 |
| 2 people | $30,660 | $2,555 |
| 3 people | $38,730 | $3,228 |
| 4 people | $46,800 | $3,900 |
| 5 people | $54,870 | $4,573 |
| 6 people | $62,940 | $5,245 |
| 7 people | $71,010 | $5,918 |
| 8 people | $79,080 | $6,590 |
For households larger than 8 people, add approximately $8,070 per additional member to the annual limit.
There is no asset test for Arkansas LIHEAP. Income is counted before taxes and includes wages, self-employment earnings, Social Security, pensions, and other regular income sources.
Who Qualifies for Arkansas LIHEAP?
To qualify, you must:
- Be a resident of Arkansas
- Have household income at or below 150% FPL (see table above)
- Pay for home energy directly, or have it included in rent (landlord-paid utilities may qualify in some cases)
- Be applying for your primary residence, not a vacation home or second property
Renters can apply if energy costs are included in rent or if they have a separate agreement to pay utilities. LIHEAP in Arkansas covers both primary heating (winter) and primary cooling (summer).
Households with elderly members (age 60 or older), people with disabilities, or children under age 6 receive early access to the winter program before it opens to the general public.
When Can You Apply?
Arkansas LIHEAP runs two program cycles each year:
| Program | Open Date | Close Date |
|---|
| Winter (priority groups) | December 8, 2025 | Through April 30, 2026 |
| Winter (general public) | January 5, 2026 | April 30, 2026 |
| Summer cooling | July 2026 | September 30, 2026 |
Priority groups for early access include:
- Applicants age 60 or older
- Applicants receiving disability benefits
- Households with children under age 6
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding is limited, so applying early in the program period improves your chances of receiving a benefit.
What Documents Do You Need?
Gather these documents before contacting your local CBO:
- Photo ID: State driver's license, government-issued ID, health insurance card, or employment ID
- Social Security numbers: Card or documentation for all household members age 18 and older
- Proof of income: Pay stubs, benefit letters, or other income documentation covering the 4 weeks before your application date
- Utility bills: Most recent heating and cooling bills showing your account number and service address
- Proof of residency: Lease agreement, mortgage statement, or utility bill showing your current address
If any household member receives SSI, SNAP, or TANF, you may be automatically income-eligible and may need fewer documents. Check with your local CBO.
How to Apply for Arkansas LIHEAP: Step-by-Step
Applications are never submitted directly to the Arkansas Energy Office. All applications go through local CBOs.
Step 1: Find your local CBO
Visit the ADEQ LIHEAP page at adeq.state.ar.us/energy/assistance/caad.aspx and click on your county on the state map, or use the dropdown menu at the bottom of the page. You can also search by ZIP code at findhelp.org.
Step 2: Contact the agency
Call or visit the CBO serving your county. Ask about current appointment availability, the documents you need to bring, and whether walk-ins are accepted or if you need to schedule ahead. Some agencies offer phone or mail applications in addition to in-person.
Step 3: Gather your documents
Collect all required documents listed above before your appointment. Having everything ready speeds up processing and avoids delays.
Step 4: Submit your application
Bring or submit your documents to the CBO. The caseworker will verify your income, household size, and other eligibility factors. If you are applying during a crisis (service is off or about to be shut off), tell the caseworker immediately so you can be considered for crisis assistance.
Step 5: Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 7 to 30 days. If approved, the benefit is paid directly to your utility company or fuel vendor, not to you. You will receive a notice of the benefit amount.
Step 6: Check your utility account
After approval, confirm with your utility company that the LIHEAP payment has been applied. Keep a copy of your approval notice for your records.
Major CBOs Serving Arkansas Counties
Arkansas LIHEAP is delivered by 15 CBOs. Here are some of the larger organizations and their general service areas:
| Organization | Counties Served |
|---|
| Central Arkansas Development Council (CADC) | Pulaski, Saline, Lonoke, Ouachita, and others |
| Central Delta Community Action Agency (CDCAA) | Mississippi, Crittenden, Phillips, and surrounding delta counties |
| Community Action Program for Central Arkansas (CAPCA) | Faulkner, Conway, and surrounding central counties |
| Southeast Arkansas Community Action Corporation | Drew, Desha, Ashley, Chicot, and surrounding southeast counties |
For the complete list with phone numbers and addresses, use the county map at the ADEQ website. Do not contact ADEQ directly to apply.
Crisis Assistance: When Bills Are Past Due
If your energy service has been disconnected or you have received a shutoff notice, request crisis assistance specifically when you contact your CBO. Crisis benefits can be higher than regular benefits and are processed more quickly.
To qualify for crisis assistance, you typically need:
- A shutoff notice or disconnection date within 24 to 72 hours
- Documentation showing the utility amount owed
- All standard eligibility documents
Some CBOs have dedicated crisis intake lines or walk-in hours for urgent cases. Call ahead to explain your situation.
What LIHEAP Does Not Cover
LIHEAP in Arkansas does not cover:
- Past-due balances beyond the benefit amount (you may still owe a remaining balance)
- Water or telephone bills
- Appliance repairs or replacement (though a separate Weatherization Assistance Program may help)
- Vacation homes or second properties
- Non-residential energy bills
If your LIHEAP benefit does not cover your full balance, contact your utility company about payment arrangements or additional assistance programs.
Other Energy Assistance Programs in Arkansas
If you do not qualify for LIHEAP or need additional help, consider:
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Improves home energy efficiency through insulation, air sealing, and other upgrades. Also administered through local CBOs.
- SNAP: Food assistance that frees up household income for other expenses including utilities. See the Arkansas SNAP program for eligibility.
- Utility company programs: Many Arkansas utilities offer low-income rate programs, budget billing, or emergency payment assistance. Contact your utility directly.
- 211 Arkansas: Call or text 211 to reach local social services, including other energy assistance funds.
Check Your Eligibility First
Not sure if you qualify for LIHEAP or other Arkansas assistance programs? Use the Benefits Navigator screener at benefitsusa.org/screener to check eligibility for LIHEAP, SNAP, Medicaid, and other programs in a few minutes. The tool is free and does not require personal identification.
For more information on all programs available to Arkansas residents, visit the Arkansas benefits overview at benefitsusa.org/states/arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for LIHEAP in Arkansas?
Arkansas LIHEAP uses 150% of the Federal Poverty Level as its income cutoff. For a single-person household that is $22,590 per year, or $1,883 per month. For a family of four, the limit is $46,800 per year, or $3,900 per month.
How do I apply for LIHEAP in Arkansas?
You apply through the local community-based organization (CBO) serving your county, not directly through the state. Find your CBO at the ADEQ website using the county map, then call or visit to start your application.
When does Arkansas LIHEAP open for 2026?
The 2026 winter program opened December 8, 2025 for priority groups (elderly, disabled, households with children under 6) and January 5, 2026 for the general public. It runs through April 30, 2026, or until funds run out.
Does LIHEAP cover both heating and cooling in Arkansas?
Yes. Arkansas LIHEAP covers both winter heating assistance (January through April) and summer cooling assistance (July through September). You may need to apply separately for each season.
Can renters apply for LIHEAP in Arkansas?
Yes, renters can apply. If utilities are included in your rent, you may still qualify. Bring your lease agreement and any documentation showing you contribute to energy costs.
How long does it take to get LIHEAP benefits in Arkansas?
Processing typically takes 7 to 30 days. The benefit is paid directly to your utility company or fuel vendor. If you have a crisis situation such as a shutoff notice, let your CBO know so you may qualify for faster processing under crisis assistance.
What happens if my income is just over the limit?
Standard LIHEAP eligibility ends at 150% FPL, but crisis assistance may have slightly different rules in some circumstances. Contact your local CBO to discuss your specific situation. If you do not qualify for LIHEAP, ask about the Weatherization Assistance Program or local utility emergency funds.
Is there an asset test for Arkansas LIHEAP?
No. Arkansas LIHEAP does not have an asset test. Eligibility is based on household income and size only.
Can I apply for LIHEAP online in Arkansas?
Arkansas LIHEAP applications are primarily handled in person or by phone through local CBOs. Some agencies may offer mail-in or limited online options. Contact your county's CBO directly to find out what application methods they accept.
