Texas residents who struggle to pay their utility bills can get help through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known in Texas as the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA), CEAP provides money directly to utility companies on behalf of qualifying households to cover heating, cooling, and energy-related crisis costs. If your household income falls at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may qualify for assistance in 2026.
What Is Texas LIHEAP (CEAP)?
The federal LIHEAP program funds energy assistance across all 50 states. In Texas, TDHCA administers the funds through its CEAP program, which covers all 254 Texas counties through a network of local community action agencies. TDHCA does not serve individuals directly. Instead, local subrecipient agencies process all applications, verify income, and coordinate benefit payments.
CEAP provides four types of assistance:
- Regular energy assistance for heating and cooling bills
- Crisis assistance when a household faces utility shutoff or has run out of fuel
- Weatherization assistance to improve home energy efficiency
- Energy education to help households reduce long-term energy costs
Texas LIHEAP Income Limits for 2026
To qualify for CEAP/LIHEAP in Texas in 2026, your household's gross monthly income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. These limits reflect the 2026 HHS poverty guidelines effective January 26, 2026.
| 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, add approximately $8,070 per additional person to calculate the annual limit at 150% FPL.
Income counted includes wages, self-employment earnings, Social Security benefits, pensions, unemployment compensation, and other regular income before taxes. Texas LIHEAP/CEAP has no asset limit, so savings or vehicle ownership does not affect eligibility.
Who Gets Priority for CEAP Assistance?
Funding is limited and not every applicant may receive a benefit before funds are exhausted. TDHCA and local agencies give priority to households that include:
- Elderly individuals (age 60 or older)
- People with disabilities
- Households with children under age 6
- Households with the highest energy costs relative to income (highest energy burden)
If you fall into one or more of these categories, apply as early as possible when the program opens in your area.
Benefit Amounts
Benefit amounts vary by household size, income level, energy costs, and available local funding. For fiscal year 2026, the program parameters are:
| Benefit Type | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|
| Heating and Cooling Assistance | $1 | $12,600 |
| Crisis Assistance | $0 | $1,800 |
| Weatherization Assistance | $0 | $12,000 |
In practice, most households receive far less than the maximums. Local agencies calculate individual benefit amounts based on the household's energy burden and available funding. Payments go directly to the utility provider, not to the household.
Eligibility Requirements Beyond Income
Meeting the income limit is the main requirement, but local agencies also verify:
Residency. You must live in the service area of the local agency where you apply and must be a Texas resident.
Utility account status. You must have an active utility account or be responsible for paying energy costs. Households where utility costs are included in rent may still qualify if the landlord can verify the energy charge.
Citizenship or legal residency. At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen. Agencies verify this through documentation (see below).
Primary residence. CEAP covers your primary home only. Vacation homes, rental properties you own, or second residences are not eligible.
Required Documents
Gathering your documents before contacting your local agency will speed up the process. Most agencies require:
Proof of identity for each household member:
- U.S. birth certificate plus a driver's license or state ID
- U.S. passport
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship plus driver's license or ID
- Permanent Resident Card plus driver's license or ID
Proof of income for all working household members:
- Consecutive pay stubs covering the 30 days before your application date
- Social Security award letter or benefit verification letter
- Pension or retirement income statements
- Self-employment records or most recent federal tax return
Proof of residence:
- Current lease or mortgage statement
- Recent utility bill in your name showing your service address
Current utility bill(s):
- Electric, gas, or heating fuel bill showing your account number and service address
Social Security numbers for all household members (if available)
How to Apply for LIHEAP in Texas: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Find Your Local CEAP Agency
TDHCA does not accept applications directly. You apply through the local community action agency that covers your county. To find yours:
- Call 211 or (877) 399-8939 to be connected to a local agency
- Visit 211Texas.org and enter your ZIP code
- Use the TDHCA "Help for Texans" search tool at tdhca.texas.gov
Step 2: Check the Application Period
CEAP funding is distributed in periods throughout the year, and local agencies may have different open enrollment windows. Some agencies open waiting lists when funds are low. Contact your local agency to confirm the current application status before gathering documents.
Step 3: Gather Your Documents
Use the document list above. The more complete your paperwork is when you contact the agency, the faster your application can move through the review process.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Many Texas agencies accept applications in person at their offices. Some also offer:
- Online or phone applications (varies by agency)
- Home visits for elderly or disabled applicants who cannot travel
When you apply, a caseworker will review your income, household composition, and utility status to calculate your benefit.
Step 5: Await Approval and Benefit Payment
After submission, the agency reviews your documents and determines your benefit amount. If approved, payment goes directly to your utility company, typically within a few weeks. You will receive a notice with the benefit amount and the account it was applied to.
Step 6: Renew Each Year
LIHEAP/CEAP is not a continuous benefit. You must reapply each program year. Local agencies will let you know when applications open for the next cycle.
Other Texas Energy Assistance Programs
If you do not qualify for CEAP or need additional help, Texas has other options:
Oncor Low-Income Bill Discount. Oncor Electric Delivery offers bill discounts to qualifying low-income customers in its service territory.
Texas Gas Service Assistance Programs. Texas Gas Service offers payment assistance and weatherization programs for qualifying customers.
Lifeline Program. The federal Lifeline program reduces monthly phone and internet bills for households at or below 135% FPL, which can free up budget for utility payments.
SNAP (food stamps). Households receiving SNAP benefits may automatically qualify for some utility deductions. Check your eligibility at benefitsusa.org/screener.
Local utility company assistance. Most major Texas utilities maintain their own customer assistance programs. Contact your provider's customer service line directly to ask about payment plans or hardship programs.
Emergency rental assistance. If your energy costs are included in your rent and you face eviction, local emergency rental assistance programs may cover both rent and utility arrears. Call 211 to find programs in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who administers LIHEAP in Texas?
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) administers LIHEAP in Texas under the program name CEAP (Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program). Local community action agencies across the state handle all direct client services.
What is the income limit for Texas LIHEAP in 2026?
The income limit is 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. For a household of one, the annual limit is $22,590. For a household of four, the limit is $46,800. See the full table above for all household sizes.
Does Texas LIHEAP cover both electric and gas bills?
Yes. CEAP can cover electricity, natural gas, propane, and other home heating fuels. The specific energy sources covered may vary slightly by local agency.
Can renters apply for Texas LIHEAP?
Yes. Renters can apply if they pay their utility bills directly. If utilities are included in your rent, you may still qualify if your landlord can document the energy cost component of your rent.
How long does the Texas LIHEAP application take?
Processing times vary by local agency and funding availability. Most agencies aim to process applications within a few weeks of receiving all required documents. During high-demand periods, wait times may be longer.
Can I apply for LIHEAP online in Texas?
Some local agencies offer online applications, but many still require in-person appointments or phone applications. Contact your local agency through 211 to find out what options are available in your county.
What happens if LIHEAP funds run out?
Federal and state LIHEAP funding is limited. Once a local agency exhausts its allocation, it stops accepting new applications until additional funding arrives. Applying early in the program year increases your chances of receiving assistance before funds are depleted.
Does Texas LIHEAP have an asset limit?
No. Texas does not apply an asset test for CEAP/LIHEAP eligibility. Savings accounts, vehicles, and other property do not affect your eligibility.
I already receive SNAP or Medicaid. Does that help me qualify?
Receiving SNAP or Medicaid does not automatically qualify you for LIHEAP in Texas, but it can indicate you are in the income range that qualifies. You still need to apply separately through your local CEAP agency.
How do I check if I qualify for other Texas benefits?
Use the free eligibility screener at benefitsusa.org/screener to check your eligibility for LIHEAP, SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, and other programs in Texas at once. The screener takes about 5 minutes and covers programs specific to your state and household situation. You can also visit our Texas benefits page for a full overview of available programs.
