Florida's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying households cover heating and cooling costs. For 2026, most Florida households qualify if their gross income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) or 60% of the State Median Income (SMI), whichever is higher. Below are the exact income limits by household size, what the program covers, and how to apply.
Florida LIHEAP Income Limits 2026
Florida uses 150% of the Federal Poverty Level as its primary income threshold. Households receiving SNAP, TANF, or SSI are automatically income-eligible.
| 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 each person beyond 8, add approximately $8,070 to the annual limit. These limits are based on 2026 HHS poverty guidelines. Florida also applies an alternative threshold of 60% of the State Median Income, which may allow some slightly higher-income households to qualify depending on family size.
There is no asset limit for Florida LIHEAP. Owning a car, home, or savings account does not disqualify you.
Who Qualifies for Florida LIHEAP
Beyond the income test, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Florida residency - You must live in Florida and apply through your county's designated agency.
- Utility responsibility - You must be responsible for paying your own home energy bills, whether you pay directly or it is included in your rent.
- Citizenship or immigration status - At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or qualified alien.
- Energy need - Your household must have a heating or cooling need. Florida's climate makes cooling assistance the more common benefit during the warm months.
Automatic eligibility applies if your household currently receives benefits from any of these programs:
- SNAP (food stamps)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
If you receive any of these, you do not need to separately verify income for LIHEAP.
What LIHEAP Covers in Florida
Florida LIHEAP has two main benefit types:
Home Energy Assistance (Standard)
This is the regular annual benefit to help with routine heating and cooling costs. Benefit amounts range from $400 to $1,350 per year depending on household size, income level, whether vulnerable household members are present (elderly, disabled, or young children), and the type of energy used.
Payments go directly to your utility provider or fuel vendor. You will not receive a check. The agency credits your account, which reduces what you owe or helps restore service.
Crisis Assistance
If your utility service has been shut off or you have received a disconnection notice, you may qualify for crisis assistance. Crisis benefits of up to $1,000 can be issued in addition to the standard benefit, and you can receive multiple crisis awards within a program year. Agencies must process verified crisis cases within 48 hours, or within 18 hours if the situation is life-threatening.
Eligible energy types include electricity, natural gas, propane, wood, coal, and other refillable fuels. LIHEAP does not cover water, sewer, internet, or telephone bills.
Program Seasons
Florida LIHEAP runs year-round with two official seasons:
| Benefit Type | Dates |
|---|
| Heating Assistance | October 1 to March 31 |
| Cooling Assistance | April 1 to September 30 |
| Crisis Assistance | Year-round |
Because Florida's climate makes summer heat a genuine health risk, cooling assistance is available for a full six months each year. Crisis assistance is available any time.
Documents You Need to Apply
Gather these documents before you apply to avoid delays:
- Photo ID for the applicant (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- Social Security cards or proof of Social Security numbers for all household members
- Proof of income covering the past 30 days: pay stubs, employer letters, Social Security award letters, pension statements, or a zero-income self-declaration
- Current utility bill showing your account number and service address
- Proof of Florida residency if your ID shows a different address (a lease, mail, or other document works)
- Disconnection notice if applying for crisis assistance
Renters whose heat or cooling is included in their rent should bring a copy of their lease showing the landlord's name and utility account, or a letter from the landlord.
How to Apply for Florida LIHEAP in 2026
LIHEAP in Florida is administered locally. FloridaCommerce distributes federal funds to Community Action Agencies (CAAs) and non-profit organizations in each county. You apply through your county's designated provider, not through a single statewide office.
Step 1: Find your local LIHEAP provider
Visit FloridaLIHEAP.com to find the agency serving your county. You can also call 2-1-1 (Florida's statewide helpline) or call FloridaCommerce directly at 850-717-8450.
Step 2: Check open enrollment
Some county agencies open applications on a first-come, first-served basis, and funds can run out before the end of the program season. Check your local agency's website or call ahead to confirm they are currently accepting applications.
Step 3: Submit your application
Most agencies offer three ways to apply:
- Online: The fastest method. Visit FloridaLIHEAP.com or your local agency's portal, create an account, and upload your documents.
- By mail: Download the application from your county agency's website, complete it, and mail it with photocopies of your documents.
- In person: Visit your local Community Action Agency office. Bring all required documents. Some agencies also accept drop-off applications without a scheduled appointment.
Step 4: Wait for a decision
Standard applications take up to 15 business days to review. Full processing including payment to your utility company can take 15 to 45 days. Crisis applications must be resolved within 48 hours.
Step 5: Payment goes to your utility provider
You will not receive cash. Once approved, the agency sends payment directly to your energy provider. Your utility account will show the credit.
Florida LIHEAP Benefit Examples
Benefit amounts vary by household. These are typical ranges based on program guidelines:
| Situation | Typical Benefit |
|---|
| Single adult, low income | $400 to $600 per year |
| Family of 4, near income limit | $700 to $1,000 per year |
| Household with elderly or disabled member | $1,000 to $1,350 per year |
| Crisis disconnection case | Up to $1,000 additional |
Households with elderly members (age 60 or older), disabled individuals, or children under age 5 often receive higher benefit amounts because they face greater health risks from temperature extremes.
Florida Counties and Local Agencies
Each Florida county has a designated LIHEAP provider. Major county agencies include:
- Miami-Dade County: Miami-Dade Community Action and Human Services
- Broward County: Community Action Agency of Broward County
- Palm Beach County: Palm Beach County Community Services
- Hillsborough County: Hillsborough County Community Action
- Orange County: Heart of Florida United Way / local CAA
- Duval County (Jacksonville): Jacksonville Housing and Community Development
Find your specific county agency through FloridaLIHEAP.com or by calling 2-1-1.
Check Your Eligibility First
Not sure if you qualify? Use the free benefits screener at BenefitsUSA.org to check your eligibility for LIHEAP and other programs at the same time. The screener covers SNAP, Medicaid, EITC, and more, all in a single five-minute form. There is no cost and no obligation.
You can also visit the Florida benefits guide for a complete list of assistance programs available to Florida residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for Florida LIHEAP in 2026?
For 2026, the income limit is 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. That works out to $22,590 per year for a single-person household and $46,800 for a family of four. Households that receive SNAP, TANF, or SSI are automatically income-eligible regardless of their specific income level.
Does Florida LIHEAP cover air conditioning?
Yes. Florida runs a cooling assistance program from April 1 through September 30 each year. Cooling assistance covers electricity costs for air conditioning. This is one of the few states where cooling is treated as seriously as heating due to the health risks of Florida's summer temperatures.
How long does LIHEAP take to process in Florida?
Standard applications take up to 15 business days for review and 15 to 45 days for payment to reach your utility provider. Crisis cases, such as disconnection notices or shut-off situations, must be processed within 48 hours. Life-threatening emergencies must be addressed within 18 hours.
Can renters apply for Florida LIHEAP?
Yes. Renters qualify as long as they are responsible for their energy costs, either by paying a utility bill directly or having energy costs factored into their rent. Renters with utilities included in rent may need a letter from their landlord confirming this.
Can I get LIHEAP if I already receive SNAP?
Yes. SNAP recipients are automatically income-eligible for LIHEAP. You still need to apply separately through your county's LIHEAP agency, but you do not need to provide separate income documentation if you are a current SNAP participant.
How much money does Florida LIHEAP give?
Standard benefits range from $400 to $1,350 per year. The exact amount depends on your household size, income level, energy type, and whether vulnerable members (elderly, disabled, or young children) live in your home. Crisis assistance can provide up to $1,000 on top of the standard benefit.
When does Florida LIHEAP open for 2026?
Florida LIHEAP runs year-round, with heating assistance available October 1 through March 31, cooling assistance from April 1 through September 30, and crisis assistance available at any time. However, some county agencies may run out of funds before the season ends. Apply early to avoid missing out.
Where do I apply for LIHEAP in Florida?
Apply through your county's Community Action Agency. The easiest way to find your local provider is to visit FloridaLIHEAP.com or call 2-1-1. You can apply online, by mail, or in person depending on your county agency's options.
Does LIHEAP affect other benefits like Medicaid or SNAP?
No. LIHEAP benefits are not counted as income and do not affect your eligibility for other programs like Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI. Receiving LIHEAP will not reduce your other benefits.
Is there an asset limit for Florida LIHEAP?
No. Florida LIHEAP does not have an asset limit. You can own a car, home, savings account, or other assets and still qualify based on your income alone.
