If you are struggling with high energy bills, two federal programs can help: the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). They often get lumped together, but they work very differently. LIHEAP puts money toward your utility bills right now. WAP improves your home so you spend less on energy going forward. Many households qualify for both, and using them together is often the most effective approach.
This guide breaks down how each program works, who qualifies, what you can expect to receive, and how to apply.
What Is LIHEAP?
LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The federal government sends block grants to states, which then run their own versions of the program. Because of this structure, benefit amounts, income limits, and application windows vary by state.
The core purpose of LIHEAP is to help low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. Most states offer three types of assistance under LIHEAP:
- Heating assistance -- A one-time or seasonal payment applied to winter energy bills (most common)
- Cooling assistance -- Help with summer electricity costs in participating states
- Crisis assistance -- Emergency funds when your heat is shut off or you face an unsafe situation
Benefit amounts typically range from around $150 to $1,800 depending on your state, household size, income, and fuel type. For example, Pennsylvania households can receive $200 to $1,000, while Washington D.C. offers up to $1,800 for qualifying households.
What Is the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)?
WAP is run by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and focuses on making homes more energy efficient rather than paying bills directly. The program funds physical improvements to your home that reduce how much energy you use in the first place.
Services covered under WAP can include:
- Insulation in walls, attics, and floors
- Sealing air leaks and weatherstripping doors and windows
- Heating and cooling system repairs or replacement
- Water heater upgrades
- ENERGY STAR appliances and lighting
- Roof repairs related to energy loss
- Health and safety improvements such as mold remediation
The average WAP recipient saves approximately $372 or more per year on energy costs after improvements. The average cost of improvements per home is around $8,000, all covered at no charge to the household. In fiscal year 2025, DOE allocated approximately $326 million to WAP nationally.
WAP services are delivered through local community action agencies and nonprofit organizations, not directly by the government.
LIHEAP vs WAP: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | LIHEAP | WAP |
|---|
| What it does | Pays energy bills | Improves home energy efficiency |
| Benefit type | Cash applied to utility account | Free home improvements |
| Typical benefit value | $150 to $1,800 (varies by state) | Approximately $8,000 in services |
| How quickly you see help | Usually within days to weeks | Can take weeks to months for work to be completed |
| Renters eligible? | Yes | Yes (with landlord permission) |
| Homeowners eligible? | Yes | Yes |
| Managed by | State agencies (HHS funding) | Local community agencies (DOE funding) |
| Income limit | Up to 150% FPL or 60% state median income | Up to 200% FPL |
| Available year-round? | Varies by state (heating season focus) | Often has waitlists |
| Requires home inspection? | No | Yes |
Income Eligibility for Each Program
LIHEAP Income Limits
The federal statute sets the maximum LIHEAP income limit at the greater of:
- 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), or
- 60% of the State Median Income (SMI)
States can set their own limits within these bounds but cannot exclude households below 110% of FPL. In practice, many states use 60% of SMI, which is often higher than 150% FPL.
For a rough reference, 150% FPL in 2026 for a family of four is approximately $49,500 annually. Check your state's specific threshold, as it may be higher.
| Household Size | 100% FPL (2026 approx.) | 150% FPL | 200% FPL |
|---|
| 1 | $15,650 | $23,475 | $31,300 |
| 2 | $21,150 | $31,725 | $42,300 |
| 3 | $26,650 | $39,975 | $53,300 |
| 4 | $32,150 | $48,225 | $64,300 |
| 5 | $37,650 | $56,475 | $75,300 |
| 6 | $43,150 | $64,725 | $86,300 |
Note: These figures are approximate based on 2026 federal poverty guidelines. Your state may use different thresholds.
WAP Income Limits
WAP eligibility is set at 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Households that receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) automatically qualify regardless of other income documentation.
Some states use 60% of State Median Income instead if it results in a higher threshold. If you already have a LIHEAP eligibility determination, many WAP providers will accept that document to confirm WAP eligibility without re-verifying income.
WAP has a higher income ceiling than LIHEAP, so some households that do not qualify for LIHEAP may still qualify for WAP.
Can You Get Both LIHEAP and WAP?
Yes. You can receive both programs in the same year, and doing so is often recommended. LIHEAP addresses your current bills while WAP reduces what you owe going forward. The programs are designed to complement each other.
Some states have coordinated their LIHEAP and WAP application processes, so applying for one may automatically screen you for the other. Ask your local agency about this when you apply.
How to Apply for LIHEAP
- Find your state agency. Each state runs its own LIHEAP program. Visit the ACF website at acf.hhs.gov or search "[your state] LIHEAP application" to find the right office.
- Check your application window. Most states open LIHEAP during the fall heating season (October through April). Some have summer cooling programs. Crisis assistance is typically available year-round.
- Gather required documents. You will typically need: proof of identity, proof of income for all household members (pay stubs, Social Security award letters), recent utility bills, and proof of address.
- Submit your application. Many states now offer online applications. Others require you to apply in person at a local community action agency, Department of Social Services office, or similar organization.
- Wait for approval. Processing times vary. Crisis cases are often expedited. If approved, LIHEAP payments typically go directly to your utility company rather than to you.
Use our free benefits screener to check whether you likely qualify for LIHEAP before you start your application.
How to Apply for WAP
- Find your local weatherization provider. WAP is delivered through local agencies. Visit energy.gov and search the WAP provider directory, or contact your state energy office. Your local community action agency is also a good starting point.
- Apply through the local provider. Most WAP applications happen at the local level, not through a national portal. Some states have online options, but most require contact with the local office.
- Provide income documentation. You will need proof of income for the prior year. This can include pay stubs, Social Security statements, or tax returns. As noted, a current LIHEAP eligibility letter may also work.
- Schedule a home energy audit. An energy auditor will visit your home to assess what improvements will save the most energy. This inspection determines what work gets done.
- Wait for work completion. WAP typically has waitlists, especially in states with high demand. The time from application to completed improvements can range from several weeks to over a year in some areas.
- Get the improvements installed. Contractors approved by the local agency do the work at no cost to you. Renters need landlord consent before work can begin.
Who Should Prioritize LIHEAP vs WAP
Apply for LIHEAP first if:
- You have a past-due utility bill or shutoff notice
- You are in crisis (heat is already off)
- You need help within the next few weeks
- You rent and your landlord is unlikely to cooperate with home improvements
Apply for WAP first (or alongside LIHEAP) if:
- Your home is drafty, poorly insulated, or has an old heating system
- Your energy bills are high year-round, not just seasonally
- You own your home or have a cooperative landlord
- You want long-term savings, not just a one-time payment
Apply for both if:
- You meet the income requirements for each (note WAP has a higher ceiling)
- You want to address both immediate bills and long-term efficiency
Special Circumstances
Mobile Homes and Manufactured Housing
Both LIHEAP and WAP serve residents of mobile homes and manufactured housing. WAP has specific guidelines for manufactured homes, and some local agencies have specialized staff for these units. Be sure to mention your housing type when you apply.
Renters
Renters can receive LIHEAP in all states. For WAP, renters can participate but need written permission from the landlord. Some improvements, like insulation and window sealing, may require landlord sign-off on more significant work. The WAP requirement is that the landlord must agree and cannot raise rent as a direct result of the improvements for a set period.
Elderly and Disabled Households
Both programs give priority to households with elderly members (60 and older) and people with disabilities. If your household includes someone in either category, mention this when you apply, as it may move you up on any waitlist.
Households Receiving SSI or SNAP
If anyone in your household receives SSI, you automatically qualify for WAP without additional income verification. Many states also use SNAP receipt as a basis for automatic LIHEAP eligibility. Check with your state for specific automatic eligibility rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LIHEAP the same as WAP?
No. LIHEAP and WAP are two separate federal programs with different funding sources, administering agencies, and purposes. LIHEAP (funded by HHS) pays energy bills. WAP (funded by DOE) pays for home energy improvements. You can receive both.
What is the income limit for WAP in 2026?
The standard federal income limit for WAP is 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. For a household of four, this is approximately $64,300 annually. Some states use 60% of State Median Income if it results in a higher threshold. Households receiving SSI qualify automatically.
What is the income limit for LIHEAP in 2026?
LIHEAP income limits are set by each state but cannot exceed 150% of the Federal Poverty Level or 60% of State Median Income (whichever is higher). For a household of four, 150% FPL is approximately $48,225. Your state may use a higher limit based on state median income.
How long does it take to get LIHEAP?
Processing times vary by state and time of year. In non-crisis situations, expect a few weeks. Crisis assistance, when your heat is off or at risk of shutoff, is typically processed much faster, sometimes within 24 to 48 hours.
How long does it take to get WAP services?
WAP typically involves a waitlist. From application to completed improvements, the process can take several weeks to over a year depending on your state and local provider's current demand. Apply as early as possible.
Does LIHEAP pay my bill directly or give me cash?
In most states, LIHEAP payments go directly to your utility company and appear as a credit on your account. You generally do not receive a check. In some cases, payments go to heating fuel vendors instead.
Can renters apply for WAP?
Yes, renters can apply. However, the landlord must give written consent before improvements are made. The landlord is also typically prohibited from raising rent specifically because of the improvements for a designated period. Contact your local WAP provider for the specific terms.
What does WAP actually do to my home?
Common improvements include adding insulation, sealing air leaks, repairing or replacing inefficient heating and cooling systems, upgrading water heaters, and installing energy-efficient lighting. Specific work depends on what the home energy audit identifies as the highest-impact improvements.
Does getting LIHEAP affect my eligibility for other benefits?
LIHEAP assistance is generally not counted as income when determining eligibility for other federal programs like SNAP or Medicaid. Check with the specific program if you have questions about a particular situation.
How do I find my local LIHEAP or WAP office?
For LIHEAP, start at acf.hhs.gov or search for your state's energy assistance program. For WAP, visit energy.gov or search "weatherization assistance [your state]." Your county's Department of Social Services or local community action agency can usually direct you to both programs.
Both LIHEAP and WAP exist because energy costs hit lower-income households hardest. Whether you need help paying this month's bill or want to reduce what you owe every month going forward, one or both programs may apply to your situation. Use our free screener to check your eligibility for LIHEAP and other assistance programs in minutes.
