HEAP and LIHEAP are essentially the same program. LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is the federal name, and HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) is the shorter name many states use when they run their local version. The federal government funds the program through block grants to states, which then set their own rules, benefit amounts, and application processes.
What Is LIHEAP?
LIHEAP stands for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. It is a federal program established in 1981 under Public Law 97-35 and administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Community Services. Congress appropriates funds each year, which flow as block grants to states, U.S. territories, and federally recognized tribes.
The federal government does not pay households directly. Instead, each state receives a grant and runs its own version of the program, choosing its own name, benefit amounts, and application procedures, as long as it meets federal minimum standards.
Key federal facts about LIHEAP:
- Created: 1981
- Federal agency: HHS Office of Community Services (OCS)
- Funding type: Block grant to states
- Households served: Approximately 6.7 million per year (NCOA, 2025)
- Covers: Heating, cooling, crisis assistance, and in some states weatherization
What Is HEAP?
HEAP is simply what many states call their LIHEAP-funded program. It stands for Home Energy Assistance Program. The most well-known example is New York, which brands its program as HEAP and operates it through county-level social services offices.
Other states may use slightly different names. Examples include:
| State | Local Program Name |
|---|---|
| New York | HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) |
| Ohio | HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) |
| Massachusetts | LIHEAP / HEARTWAP |
| California | LIHEAP (run through local community agencies) |
| Pennsylvania | LIHEAP |
| Texas | LIHEAP (run through TDHCA and local agencies) |
The naming is purely administrative. Whether your state calls it HEAP or LIHEAP, the program uses federal LIHEAP funds and shares the same core purpose: helping low-income households pay energy bills.
HEAP vs LIHEAP: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | LIHEAP (Federal) | HEAP (State Implementation) |
|---|---|---|
| Who funds it | Federal government (Congress) | Federal LIHEAP block grant |
| Who runs it | States, tribes, territories | State or county agencies |
| Income limit (max) | 150% FPL or 60% state median income | Set by each state within federal limits |
| Who can apply | Low-income households, owners and renters | Same, via local offices |
| Benefit type | Block grant to states | Cash or direct vendor payment |
| Emergency help | Yes (crisis component required) | Yes, varies by state |
| Cooling assistance | Optional (state decides) | Varies by state |
| Weatherization | Optional | Some states include |
Bottom line: HEAP and LIHEAP are the same program with different branding. Your eligibility, benefit amount, and how to apply all depend on the state you live in, not whether your state uses the name "HEAP" or "LIHEAP."
Who Qualifies: LIHEAP Income Limits
Federal law sets the eligibility range. States must set their income limit at no less than 110% of the federal poverty guidelines (FPG) and no more than 150% FPG, unless 60% of the state's median income (SMI) is higher, in which case the higher threshold applies.
2025 LIHEAP Maximum Income Limits (150% FPL, 48 Contiguous States)
The 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines were published January 17, 2025 by HHS. At 150% of the poverty level, the income thresholds are approximately:
| Household Size | 100% FPL (approx.) | 150% FPL (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $15,650 | $23,475 |
| 2 persons | $21,150 | $31,725 |
| 3 persons | $26,650 | $39,975 |
| 4 persons | $32,150 | $48,225 |
| 5 persons | $37,650 | $56,475 |
| Each additional | +$5,500 | +$8,250 |
Note: Alaska and Hawaii have higher FPL thresholds. Your state may use a different income limit within the federal range. Always confirm with your local LIHEAP office, as states update limits annually and may set lower thresholds than the 150% maximum.
Other Eligibility Factors
Beyond income, most states also consider:
- Household size (more people generally means a higher income cutoff)
- Energy burden (how much of your income goes to energy costs)
- Presence of elderly, disabled, or young children (these households often receive priority)
- Whether you pay utilities directly or through rent
Both homeowners and renters can qualify. If utilities are included in your rent, you can still apply in most states.
What Does LIHEAP/HEAP Pay For?
Federal law requires four types of assistance. States choose which they offer:
- Heating assistance (all states must offer this or cooling) -- helps pay winter heating bills for oil, gas, electric, wood, or propane
- Cooling assistance (optional) -- helps pay summer air conditioning costs
- Crisis/emergency assistance (required) -- fast help when you face a shutoff notice or a broken heating system
- Low-cost weatherization (optional) -- minor home repairs to reduce energy loss, like insulation or window sealing
Benefit amounts vary widely by state and depend on income, household size, heating type, and available funding. Some states offer fixed amounts; others calculate benefits on a sliding scale. Check with your local agency for the current benefit amount in your area, as amounts change from year to year based on state funding levels.
How to Apply for HEAP or LIHEAP: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Find Your Local Agency
LIHEAP is not applied for directly with the federal government. Use the LIHEAP Grantee Search at liheapch.acf.hhs.gov or call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline at 1-866-674-6327 to find your local office.
Step 2: Check the Application Window
Each state opens its LIHEAP program on its own schedule. Heating assistance typically runs from fall through early spring. Cooling assistance (where offered) typically opens in late spring or summer. Funds are limited and often first-come, first-served, so apply as early as possible.
Step 3: Gather Your Documents
Most offices require:
- Proof of identity (ID, driver's license)
- Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or mail)
- Proof of income for all household members (pay stubs, benefit award letters, tax returns)
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Most recent utility or heating fuel bills
- Landlord information if utilities are included in rent
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Depending on your state, you can apply:
- Online through your state or county social services portal
- In person at a local community action agency or social services office
- By mail (some states still accept paper applications)
- By phone in some areas
Step 5: Wait for a Decision
Processing times vary. Crisis cases are typically handled faster, sometimes within 24 to 48 hours. Regular heating benefits may take a few weeks. You will receive a written notice of the decision. If approved, the benefit is usually paid directly to your utility company or fuel supplier.
Step 6: Apply for Emergency Help If Needed
If you have a shutoff notice or your heating system has failed, tell the agency immediately. The crisis component is federally required and intended for exactly this situation. Do not wait for the regular season to open.
Does It Matter If My State Calls It HEAP or LIHEAP?
No. The name does not affect your eligibility or benefit amount. The program is the same regardless of what your state calls it. What matters is:
- Your income relative to your state's threshold
- Your household size
- Your state's current funding and open application period
- Your energy situation (heating, cooling, or crisis)
If you hear someone say "I got HEAP" and someone else says "I applied for LIHEAP," they likely went through the same program, just in different states or with different local branding.
LIHEAP vs Other Energy Assistance Programs
LIHEAP is the main federal energy assistance program, but it is not the only option.
| Program | Who Runs It | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP / HEAP | Federal (state-administered) | Heating, cooling, crisis, weatherization |
| WAP (Weatherization Assistance Program) | Federal (DOE, state-administered) | Home energy efficiency improvements |
| Utility company assistance | Private utilities | Bill credits, payment plans, shutoff protection |
| SNAP (food stamps) | Federal (state-administered) | Food only, but can trigger automatic LIHEAP eligibility in some states |
| State energy funds | State government | Varies by state |
| Low Income Home Energy Assistance Act (state-only programs) | Some states | Supplements federal LIHEAP |
SNAP connection: In many states, if you receive SNAP benefits, you may be automatically eligible for LIHEAP or receive a simplified application process. This is called "categorical eligibility" and speeds up the process significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HEAP the same as LIHEAP?
Yes. HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) is the name many states give to their local administration of the federal LIHEAP program. The two names refer to the same underlying program and funding source. New York is the most prominent example of a state that uses the HEAP name.
Does LIHEAP cover electricity bills?
Yes, in most states. LIHEAP covers heating (winter) and in states that offer a cooling component, electricity for air conditioning (summer). The specific coverage depends on how your state has designed its program.
Can I get LIHEAP if I rent?
Yes. Renters can qualify whether they pay utilities directly or have utilities included in their rent. If utilities are rolled into your rent, you may need documentation from your landlord.
How much money does LIHEAP give you?
Benefit amounts vary widely by state, household size, income, and available funding. Some states pay a fixed benefit; others use a sliding scale. Benefits are typically paid directly to your utility company or fuel supplier, not as cash to you. Contact your local LIHEAP office for the current benefit schedule in your state.
Is LIHEAP first-come, first-served?
In most states, yes. Funds are limited and states often close applications once funding runs out. Applying early in the season significantly improves your chances of receiving benefits. Crisis assistance may be available even after regular heating assistance closes.
Does LIHEAP affect other benefits like Medicaid or SNAP?
Generally no. LIHEAP is not counted as income when determining eligibility for other federal programs. Receiving LIHEAP should not affect your Medicaid, SNAP, or SSI benefits. However, rules can vary, so check with your state agency if you are concerned.
Can I get LIHEAP more than once?
You can apply each program year. Most states open a new application cycle every year. Some states also allow additional crisis assistance applications during the same year if you face a new emergency.
What if I was denied LIHEAP?
If you are denied, you have the right to appeal. The denial notice should explain the reason and how to appeal. Common reasons for denial include income over the limit, missing documentation, or funding exhaustion for the current period. If funding ran out, ask to be placed on a waiting list or check back when the new program year opens.
Check If You Qualify
Not sure if you qualify for LIHEAP, HEAP, or other energy and income-based programs? Use the free Benefits USA screener to check your eligibility for LIHEAP, SNAP, Medicaid, and 11 other programs in one quick form. It takes about 5 minutes and shows you what you may qualify for in your state.
