Mississippi's LIHEAP program helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills, with benefits up to $1,500 per year. To qualify in 2026, your household income must fall at or below 60% of the State Median Income (SMI) for your household size. That threshold is more generous than the federal 150% FPL standard used in many other states, meaning more Mississippi families may be eligible than they realize. This guide covers the exact income limits, who qualifies, what the benefits cover, and how to apply through the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS).
What Is LIHEAP in Mississippi?
LIHEAP stands for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. It is a federally funded program administered in Mississippi by the MDHS Division of Community Services through a network of local Community Action Agencies (CAAs) and Human Resource Agencies (HRAs). The program operates in all 82 counties.
Mississippi LIHEAP covers three types of assistance:
- Heating assistance -- for winter energy costs (October 1 through April 30)
- Cooling assistance -- for summer energy costs (May 1 through September 30)
- Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) -- emergency help for households facing utility shutoff or running out of fuel at any time of year
All three components require the same income qualification standard: household income at or below 60% of the State Median Income.
Mississippi LIHEAP Income Limits 2026
Mississippi uses 60% of the State Median Income rather than the federal poverty level as its income benchmark. The federal rules allow states to choose whichever standard covers more households. Below are the approximate annual income limits for FY 2026 based on 150% FPL, which serve as the federal ceiling. Mississippi's actual SMI-based limits may differ slightly; contact your local CAA to confirm the exact dollar threshold for your household size.
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit (150% FPL) | 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 person to the annual limit.
Because Mississippi uses 60% of SMI rather than 150% FPL, your actual limit may be higher or lower depending on your household size. Mississippi's median income is below the national average, so the SMI-based threshold in some cases runs close to the 150% FPL figures above. Your local CAA caseworker can give you the exact number that applies to your application.
Who Qualifies for Mississippi LIHEAP?
To receive LIHEAP benefits in Mississippi, your household must meet all three of the following:
- Income -- Total gross household income at or below 60% of the State Median Income for your household size
- Energy obligation -- An active energy bill owed to an energy company or included in rent paid to a landlord
- Citizenship or immigration status -- At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or qualified legal permanent resident
There is no asset test. Mississippi does not count savings, vehicles, or other assets when determining LIHEAP eligibility.
Priority Households
Mississippi gives highest priority to households that include:
- Adults age 60 or older
- Individuals with disabilities
- Children age 5 or younger
Priority households receive appointment notices within 30 business days of submitting a pre-application. Non-priority households may wait up to 45 days. During peak heating and cooling seasons, funds can run out before all eligible applicants are served, so applying early matters.
Income That Counts
LIHEAP caseworkers count all gross income received by household members, including:
- Wages and salaries (before taxes)
- Self-employment income
- Social Security and SSI payments
- Pension and retirement income
- Unemployment compensation
- Child support and alimony received
- Veterans benefits
- Other regular cash income
Income is typically measured over the 30 days prior to application, then annualized. If your income varies month to month, your caseworker will help you calculate the correct figure.
LIHEAP Benefit Amounts in Mississippi 2026
Mississippi LIHEAP benefit amounts are not fixed flat payments. They are calculated based on your household income, household size, and primary heating or cooling fuel type. For FY 2026, the program parameters are:
| Benefit Type | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|
| Heating assistance | $1 | $1,500 |
| Cooling assistance | $1 | $1,500 |
| Crisis assistance (ECIP) | $1 | $1,500 |
| Weatherization services | -- | $12,000 |
Benefits are paid directly to your utility provider or fuel supplier. You will not receive a check. If approved, you will see a credit applied to your energy account.
Lower-income households and those using more expensive fuel types (such as propane or wood) generally receive higher benefit amounts. Your caseworker calculates the specific amount during your appointment.
Weatherization Assistance
Mississippi LIHEAP also connects eligible households to weatherization services that reduce long-term energy costs. Weatherization can include insulation, air sealing, and heating or cooling equipment repair or replacement. The maximum weatherization benefit is $12,000. This component is funded separately from the regular heating and cooling benefits, and waitlists can be long. Ask your CAA about weatherization when you apply for regular LIHEAP.
Types of Energy Covered
Mississippi LIHEAP covers most common residential energy sources:
- Electricity
- Natural gas
- Propane and butane (liquid petroleum gas)
- Heating oil
- Wood and wood pellets
The program covers both primary heating fuel costs and electric bills even when electricity is not the primary heat source.
How to Apply for Mississippi LIHEAP in 2026
Mississippi uses a two-stage process. You submit a pre-application online, then complete the full application in person at your local CAA or HRA.
Step 1: Submit a Pre-Application Online
Go to the Common Web Portal on Access Mississippi at virtualroma.mdhs.ms.gov. Create an account or log in, then select "Community Services" when asked which program you want to apply for. Fill out the pre-application form with basic household and income information.
If you do not have internet access, call your local CAA or HRA directly. They can walk you through the pre-application by phone or in person.
Step 2: Wait for Your Appointment Letter
After submitting the pre-application, watch for a letter with your appointment date. Priority households (elderly, disabled, or with young children) receive appointment notices within 30 business days. All other households may wait up to 45 business days. Keep your contact information current so you receive the letter.
Step 3: Gather Your Documents
Before your appointment, collect the following:
- Government-issued photo ID for the applicant
- Social Security cards or proof of Social Security numbers for all household members
- Proof of income for all household members (pay stubs, benefit award letters, or bank statements covering the past 30 days)
- Proof of current residence (lease agreement, mortgage statement, or utility bill with your name and address)
- Most recent energy or utility bills for all energy accounts
- If applicable, documentation of elderly, disabled, or child status for priority consideration
Do not skip your appointment if you are missing some documents. Bring what you have. You will have an opportunity to submit additional documents after the interview.
Step 4: Attend Your In-Person Interview
Go to your scheduled appointment at your local CAA or HRA. A caseworker will complete the full LIHEAP application with you, verify your information, and let you know if anything else is needed.
To find your local agency, visit the MDHS local service agency directory at www.mdhs.ms.gov/local-service-agency or call MDHS at 601-359-4500.
Step 5: Receive a Decision
MDHS will mail you a written notice of approval or denial. If approved, payment goes directly to your utility provider. You do not need to do anything else once approved.
Step 6: Apply for Crisis Assistance if Needed
If your utility is about to be shut off or you have run out of fuel before you complete the regular LIHEAP application process, contact your local CAA immediately and ask for ECIP crisis assistance. Crisis cases are handled faster. Do not wait for a shutoff notice to get help.
Where to Apply in Mississippi
LIHEAP is administered at the local level through a network of agencies. Below are some of the larger organizations that process LIHEAP applications in Mississippi:
- Hinds County Human Resource Agency (HCHRA) -- Serving Hinds County and surrounding areas; hchra.org/liheap
- Mississippi Power payment assistance -- For Mississippi Power customers, additional utility assistance may be available in combination with LIHEAP; mississippipower.com
- Statewide agency directory -- All 82 counties are served; use the MDHS directory to find the agency in your county
Other Energy Assistance Programs in Mississippi
If LIHEAP funds have run out or you need additional help, consider these programs:
Utility Company Assistance
Most Mississippi utility providers offer their own low-income assistance or budget billing programs. Contact your utility directly to ask about hardship funds, payment plans, or disconnection protections.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
WAP is a separate federally funded program that makes free home energy efficiency improvements. Eligibility is similar to LIHEAP. Apply through your local CAA.
Community Action Agencies
Your local CAA may also offer emergency utility bill assistance through private or state-funded programs when LIHEAP funds are exhausted.
Mississippi Medicaid and SNAP
If you qualify for LIHEAP, you may also qualify for Medicaid health coverage and SNAP food assistance. Use the free Benefits Navigator screener at /screener to check eligibility for multiple programs at once, or visit /states/mississippi for a complete guide to Mississippi benefits programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for LIHEAP in Mississippi in 2026?
Mississippi uses 60% of the State Median Income as the income limit for LIHEAP. For a household of four, the limit is approximately $46,800 per year based on 150% FPL benchmarks, though the SMI-based number may differ. Contact your local Community Action Agency or call MDHS at 601-359-4500 for the exact amount for your household size.
Can renters apply for Mississippi LIHEAP?
Yes. Renters qualify as long as they have an energy obligation, which includes paying an electric or gas bill in your name, or paying rent to a landlord who covers utility costs. If your landlord pays your energy bills directly, you may still qualify if energy costs are bundled into your rent.
Does Mississippi LIHEAP cover cooling costs?
Yes. Mississippi LIHEAP covers both heating (October through April) and cooling (May through September). The maximum benefit for cooling assistance is $1,500, the same as for heating.
How long does it take to get approved?
After submitting your pre-application, priority households (elderly, disabled, or with children under 5) receive an appointment within 30 business days. Non-priority households may wait up to 45 business days. If you are facing an immediate shutoff, apply for the Emergency Crisis Intervention Program, which is processed faster.
Can I get LIHEAP if I already get SNAP or Medicaid?
Yes. Receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or other assistance programs does not disqualify you from LIHEAP. In fact, if your household income is low enough to qualify for those programs, you likely meet the LIHEAP income requirements as well.
What if LIHEAP funds run out in my county?
LIHEAP is available pending the availability of funds. If your county's allocation is exhausted, your application may be placed on a waitlist or denied for that program year. Apply as early as possible at the start of each heating or cooling season to improve your chances. Ask your local CAA about alternative emergency energy assistance.
Is there an asset or savings limit for Mississippi LIHEAP?
No. Mississippi does not have an asset test for LIHEAP. Savings, vehicles, and other property are not counted when determining eligibility.
How do I apply for LIHEAP crisis assistance in Mississippi?
Contact your local CAA or HRA immediately and explain that you are facing a shutoff or have run out of fuel. ECIP crisis cases can be processed more quickly than regular LIHEAP applications. You will still need to provide income and household documentation, so gather those materials before you call.
