South Carolina's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills, prevent utility shutoffs, and cover energy-related crisis costs. For fiscal year 2026, the program covers October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026, with income limits set at 60% of the South Carolina State Median Income (SMI). If you need help keeping the lights on or staying warm this winter, here is what you need to know to qualify and apply.
What Is LIHEAP in South Carolina?
LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered at the state level by the South Carolina Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO). Funding flows through local Community Action Agencies across South Carolina's 46 counties. The program covers four types of assistance:
- Heating assistance (October 1 to April 30)
- Cooling assistance (May 1 to September 30)
- Crisis assistance for emergencies like disconnection notices (year-round)
- Weatherization to improve energy efficiency in your home
You do not have to be receiving public benefits to qualify. Renters and homeowners are both eligible, and the program accepts all fuel types including electricity, natural gas, propane, heating oil, coal, and wood.
2026 Income Limits for South Carolina LIHEAP
South Carolina uses 60% of the State Median Income as its eligibility threshold. There is no asset test. If your gross household income falls at or below the limits below, you may qualify.
Monthly Gross Income Limits
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Income |
|---|
| 1 person | $2,666 |
| 2 people | $3,486 |
| 3 people | $4,306 |
| 4 people | $5,127 |
| 5 people | $5,947 |
| 6 people | $6,767 |
For households larger than 6, add approximately $820 per additional person.
These figures represent gross income, meaning income before taxes and deductions. All household members' income counts, including wages, Social Security benefits, SSI, unemployment, child support, alimony, and self-employment income.
Income Notes
- No income at all? You can still apply. South Carolina does not require you to have income to receive LIHEAP.
- Income above these limits? You may still be eligible for crisis assistance during an energy emergency, so it is worth contacting your local agency.
2026 Benefit Amounts
LIHEAP in South Carolina provides direct grants paid to your energy provider, not to you directly. Benefit amounts vary based on household need, fuel type, and available funding.
| Assistance Type | Minimum Benefit | Maximum Benefit |
|---|
| Heating assistance | $200 | $850 |
| Cooling assistance | $200 | $775 |
| Crisis / emergency | -- | $1,000 |
Eligible households may receive up to two assistance payments per year, and those can be a combination of different assistance types. For example, you could receive one heating payment and one crisis payment in the same fiscal year.
Households with elderly members (age 60 or older), disabled individuals, or children under 6 typically receive priority processing.
Who Qualifies for South Carolina LIHEAP?
To be eligible for South Carolina LIHEAP in 2026, your household must meet all of the following:
- Income at or below 60% of State Median Income (see table above)
- South Carolina resident at the time of application
- U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen (lawful permanent residents and certain other immigration statuses qualify)
- Responsible for paying an energy bill, either directly or as part of rent
There is no minimum income requirement and no asset test. You do not have to own your home.
Priority Populations
South Carolina gives processing priority to:
- Households with members age 60 or older
- Households with members who have a disability
- Households with children age 5 or younger
- Households with a member who has a medical condition worsened by extreme temperatures
If you fall into one of these categories, note it when you apply.
How to Apply for LIHEAP in South Carolina
South Carolina LIHEAP applications are handled by local Community Action Agencies, not by a single state portal. You apply at the agency serving your county.
Step 1: Find Your Local Agency
Go to the South Carolina Office of Economic Opportunity's LIHEAP page at oeo.sc.gov/liheap.htm to find the Community Action Agency that serves your county. Each county is assigned to a local agency.
Step 2: Contact the Agency to Schedule
Many agencies require an appointment. Do not just show up. Call ahead or check the agency's website to schedule your application appointment. Walk-ins may be turned away, especially during peak heating season (October through January when demand is highest).
Step 3: Gather Your Documents
Bring the following to your appointment:
- Photo ID with your current address (state-issued preferred)
- Social Security cards for every household member
- Proof of income for the past 30 days for all working household members (pay stubs, award letters for Social Security or disability, pension statements)
- Three most recent energy bills from your utility provider
- Disconnection notice if you have received one (helps prioritize your application for crisis assistance)
- Proof of residency if your ID address does not match your current address
All names on your documents should match. If your utility account is in a different name than your ID, bring documentation explaining the situation.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
At your appointment, a case worker will review your documents and complete the application with you. The grant is paid directly to your utility company, so you will not receive a check.
Step 5: Wait for Notification
Processing times vary by county and funding availability. Once approved, your utility company is notified directly. You will receive a notice of decision by mail.
Crisis Assistance: What to Do If Your Utilities Are About to Be Shut Off
If you have received a disconnection notice or your heat or power has already been cut off, contact your local LIHEAP agency immediately and tell them it is an emergency. Crisis assistance is available year-round and can provide up to $1,000 to prevent or restore service.
Bring your disconnection notice with you. This speeds up processing significantly.
Local Agency Spotlight: Palmetto Community Action Partners
If you live in Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester County, contact Palmetto Community Action Partners (Palmetto CAP):
- Phone: (843) 724-6760 or 1-844-769-6448
- Address: 1069 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
- Scheduling: Call or visit palmettocap.itfrontdesk.com to book an appointment
Palmetto CAP does not accept walk-ins. Appointments are required. Applications must be spaced at least 30 days apart if you are applying a second time in the same fiscal year.
For other counties, the agency contact list is available through oeo.sc.gov.
Other Energy Assistance Programs in South Carolina
LIHEAP is not the only help available. If you are not eligible or LIHEAP funds run out, explore these options:
- Project Share - A utility-funded supplemental program run through local agencies alongside LIHEAP; eligibility requirements are similar
- Duke Energy Bill Assistance - Duke Energy's Share the Warmth program and other bill assistance programs for low-income customers
- Dominion Energy SC CareLine - Offers payment arrangements and budget billing for eligible customers
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) - Free energy efficiency improvements to your home (insulation, HVAC tune-ups, air sealing) to lower bills long-term
- SC Housing - Emergency Rental Assistance may cover utility costs for renters facing housing instability
Check Your Eligibility for Multiple Programs
LIHEAP is just one of several programs available to South Carolina residents facing financial hardship. You may also qualify for SNAP food assistance, Medicaid, or utility discount programs like Lifeline. Running a free eligibility check takes just a few minutes and shows everything you might qualify for at once.
Check your eligibility for South Carolina benefits at benefitsusa.org/screener
You can also explore all available programs for South Carolina residents at our South Carolina benefits page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for LIHEAP in South Carolina in 2026?
Income limits are set at 60% of the South Carolina State Median Income. For a single-person household, the monthly limit is approximately $2,666. For a family of four, it is approximately $5,127 per month. Add roughly $820 per month for each additional household member beyond six.
Can I apply for LIHEAP online in South Carolina?
South Carolina does not have a single statewide online application for LIHEAP. Most counties require you to apply in person at your local Community Action Agency. Some agencies allow you to call and schedule an appointment first, and a few may accept applications by phone or mail. Contact your local agency to find out what options are available.
How much does LIHEAP pay in South Carolina?
Heating assistance pays between $200 and $850 per application. Cooling assistance pays between $200 and $775. Crisis assistance can cover up to $1,000. Benefits are paid directly to your utility provider, not to you.
Can I apply twice for LIHEAP in South Carolina?
Yes. Eligible households may receive up to two LIHEAP payments per fiscal year (October 1 through September 30). These can be the same type or different types of assistance (for example, one heating payment and one crisis payment).
Do I have to have income to qualify for LIHEAP in South Carolina?
No. South Carolina does not require you to have any income to qualify for LIHEAP. If your household has no income, you may still be eligible.
What documents do I need to apply for LIHEAP in South Carolina?
You typically need a photo ID, Social Security cards for all household members, proof of income for the past 30 days, three recent utility bills, and proof of South Carolina residency. If you have a disconnection notice, bring that too.
Does LIHEAP cover renters in South Carolina?
Yes. Both renters and homeowners can receive LIHEAP assistance. Renters qualify as long as they are responsible for paying their energy bill, either directly or as part of a lease arrangement.
When does LIHEAP open for applications in South Carolina?
The heating assistance period runs October 1 through April 30. Cooling assistance runs May 1 through September 30. Crisis assistance is available year-round. Funding is limited, so applying as early in the season as possible improves your chances of receiving a benefit.
What if I am over the income limit?
If your income is slightly above the limit, you can still contact your local agency. In some cases, deductions for child care, medical expenses, or other costs may bring your countable income below the threshold. Additionally, crisis assistance sometimes has different or more flexible income criteria.
Where do I apply for LIHEAP in South Carolina?
You apply at the Community Action Agency that serves your county. Find your local agency at oeo.sc.gov/liheap.htm. Each of South Carolina's 46 counties is served by a designated local agency.
