Arkansas residents who struggle to pay heating or cooling bills may qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). To qualify in 2026, your household income must fall at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), which works out to $23,940 per year for a single person and $49,500 for a family of four. If you are close to those thresholds, it is worth applying since there are no asset limits and benefits can cover up to $570 for heating costs.
LIHEAP in Arkansas is a federally funded program administered through the Arkansas Energy Office and delivered by a network of community-based organizations (CBOs) across all 75 counties. Applications go directly to your local CBO, not to any state agency. Funding is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, so applying early in each program window matters.
Arkansas LIHEAP Income Limits for 2026
Arkansas uses 150% of the Federal Poverty Level as its income threshold. The table below shows the maximum gross monthly and annual income your household can have and still qualify.
| Household Size | Max Annual Income (150% FPL) | Max Monthly Income |
|---|
| 1 person | $23,940 | $1,995 |
| 2 people | $32,460 | $2,705 |
| 3 people | $40,980 | $3,415 |
| 4 people | $49,500 | $4,125 |
| 5 people | $58,020 | $4,835 |
| 6 people | $66,540 | $5,545 |
| 7 people | $75,060 | $6,255 |
| 8 people | $83,580 | $6,965 |
For households larger than 8, add approximately $8,520 per additional person to the annual limit ($710 per month).
These figures are based on the 2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines effective January 13, 2026, for the 48 contiguous states and D.C. Arkansas follows the standard 48-contiguous-states FPL chart.
Arkansas also considers 60% of State Median Income (SMI) as an alternative threshold. Your household qualifies under whichever standard is more favorable, so even if you are slightly above 150% FPL, you may still be eligible under the SMI calculation.
What Counts as Income
LIHEAP uses gross household income, meaning income before taxes or deductions. The following generally count toward the income calculation:
- Wages and self-employment earnings
- Social Security and SSI benefits
- Pension and retirement income
- Unemployment compensation
- Child support and alimony received
- Veterans benefits
There is no asset limit for Arkansas LIHEAP. You can own a home or have savings and still qualify based solely on income and household size.
Arkansas LIHEAP Benefit Amounts for 2026
The benefit you receive depends on your household income, household size, type of fuel used, and whether you need regular or crisis assistance.
| Benefit Type | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|
| Heating assistance | $60 | $570 |
| Cooling assistance | $60 | $344 |
| Winter crisis assistance | $0 | $600 |
| Summer crisis assistance | $0 | $600 |
Benefits are paid directly to your utility provider or fuel supplier, not to you. This means the money goes straight toward reducing your balance or covering an upcoming bill.
Crisis Assistance
If your utility service has been disconnected or is about to be disconnected, you may qualify for crisis assistance regardless of whether you have previously received regular LIHEAP benefits. Crisis benefits can reach $600 and are processed more quickly than standard applications.
Who Qualifies for Arkansas LIHEAP
Beyond the income requirements, you must meet the following conditions:
- Arkansas residency. You must live in the state and apply through the CBO serving your county.
- Energy burden. Your household must be responsible for paying an energy bill, either directly or as part of your rent. If heat is included in your rent, you may still qualify for a benefit paid to your landlord.
- Residential use only. LIHEAP does not cover commercial or business accounts.
- Identity and documentation. You must be able to show proof of who you are and that the income information you provide is accurate.
There is no citizenship or immigration status requirement for LIHEAP at the federal level, though individual states may apply additional rules. Contact your local CBO to confirm current requirements.
Documents Needed to Apply
Before contacting your local CBO, gather the following:
- Photo ID for the applicant (state ID, driver's license, or passport)
- Social Security cards or numbers for all household members
- Proof of income for all household members who earn income (recent pay stubs, benefit award letters, or tax documents)
- Recent utility bill or account statement showing your account number and current balance
- Proof of residence such as a lease agreement or mortgage statement if your name does not appear on the utility bill
If your landlord pays the heating or cooling costs directly, bring a copy of your lease showing that heat or cooling is included. Your CBO can help you determine what additional documentation may be needed.
How to Apply for LIHEAP in Arkansas
Arkansas LIHEAP applications are submitted through local Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), not through a statewide online portal. There are CBOs in every one of the 75 Arkansas counties.
Step 1: Find your local CBO.
Visit the Arkansas Energy Office website at adeq.state.ar.us/energy/assistance/caad.aspx or call the Arkansas Energy Office at 501-682-8726 to locate the CBO that serves your county.
Step 2: Contact the CBO to confirm application dates.
Application windows typically run from January through April 30 for heating assistance and from July through September 30 for cooling assistance. Crisis assistance may be available year-round when funding allows. Application dates can vary by organization, so call ahead.
Step 3: Submit your application and documents.
Some CBOs accept walk-in applications while others require appointments. Bring all required documents listed above. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Step 4: Wait for determination.
Once your application is submitted and verified, the CBO will notify you of the decision. If approved, your benefit is sent directly to your energy provider.
Step 5: Appeal if denied.
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. The denial notice should include instructions on how to request a review. Contact your local CBO or the Arkansas Energy Office if you need help understanding the appeals process.
Application Windows
| Season | Program Period | Typical Dates |
|---|
| Heating | Winter season | January to April 30 |
| Cooling | Summer season | July to September 30 |
| Crisis | Year-round | As funding allows |
Dates can shift slightly depending on when the state receives its federal allocation. Check with your local CBO at the start of each season to confirm current open periods.
LIHEAP and Other Arkansas Benefits
LIHEAP can be combined with several other programs that help reduce household energy and utility costs:
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). Arkansas residents at or below 200% FPL may qualify for free home weatherization services, including insulation, window sealing, and furnace tune-ups. WAP reduces energy bills long term.
- Arkansas Medicaid. If your income qualifies for LIHEAP, you may also qualify for Arkansas Medicaid, which covers health care costs for low-income residents.
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). SNAP uses similar income guidelines. Households that qualify for LIHEAP often qualify for SNAP as well.
- Lifeline. This federal program provides monthly discounts on phone and internet service for qualifying low-income households.
If you want to check eligibility for all of these programs at once, the free Benefits Navigator screener can review your situation across 11+ assistance programs based on your income and household size.
You can also find Arkansas-specific program information on the Arkansas benefits page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for Arkansas LIHEAP in 2026?
Arkansas sets the LIHEAP income limit at 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. For a single person, the limit is $23,940 per year ($1,995 per month). For a family of four, it is $49,500 per year ($4,125 per month). Arkansas also uses 60% of State Median Income as an alternative threshold, so some households above 150% FPL may still qualify.
Does Arkansas LIHEAP have an asset limit?
No. Arkansas LIHEAP has no asset limit. Eligibility is based entirely on household income and size, not on savings, home equity, or other assets.
How much money can I get from Arkansas LIHEAP?
The maximum heating benefit is $570. The maximum cooling benefit is $344. Crisis benefits can reach $600 for either winter or summer emergencies. Your actual benefit amount depends on your income, household size, and the type of fuel your home uses.
When does the Arkansas LIHEAP application open?
The heating assistance period typically runs from January through April 30. The cooling assistance period typically runs from July through September 30. Crisis assistance may be available outside these windows when funding is available. Dates can vary by county, so check with your local CBO.
Can renters apply for Arkansas LIHEAP?
Yes. Renters can apply. If heat is included in your rent, you may still be eligible for a benefit paid directly to your landlord. Bring a copy of your lease to your appointment.
Where do I apply for LIHEAP in Arkansas?
Applications are submitted through the Community-Based Organization (CBO) that serves your county. There is no statewide online portal. Contact the Arkansas Energy Office at 501-682-8726 or visit adeq.state.ar.us/energy/assistance/caad.aspx to find your local CBO.
Can I get LIHEAP if I receive Social Security or SSI?
Yes. Social Security and SSI income count toward the household income calculation, but recipients often fall within the 150% FPL threshold. Many seniors and people with disabilities who rely on these benefits qualify for LIHEAP.
What if my utility has already been disconnected?
If your service has been disconnected or is facing disconnection, apply for crisis assistance. Crisis benefits of up to $600 can be processed faster than regular benefits. Contact your local CBO immediately and explain that you are in a crisis situation.
Does everyone in my household need to be a U.S. citizen?
LIHEAP does not have a federal citizenship requirement, but Arkansas may apply additional eligibility rules. At minimum, the applicant typically must provide valid identification. Contact your local CBO for the current state policy.
Can I receive LIHEAP and SNAP at the same time?
Yes. LIHEAP and SNAP are separate programs and you can receive both simultaneously if you meet each program's income and eligibility requirements. The income thresholds are similar enough that many households qualify for both.
