If your home is drafty, your heating bills are high, or your appliances are aging out, two very different federal programs can help: the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and energy efficiency rebates through the Inflation Reduction Act (often called HOMES and HEAR rebates, promoted through ENERGY STAR). Both help you cut energy costs, but they target different income levels, cover different types of work, and run through completely separate systems. This guide breaks down exactly how they compare so you can apply to the right one, or both, depending on what you qualify for. Not sure which programs you may be eligible for? Run a free check with our benefits screener.
The Short Answer: Which Program Is for You?
The Weatherization Assistance Program is designed for households with very low incomes. If your income falls at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, WAP will send a contractor to your home at no cost to you and perform insulation, air sealing, heating system repairs, and more.
Energy efficiency rebates through the Inflation Reduction Act target a broader range of households, up to 150% of area median income. These rebates work differently: you typically pay for the upgrade yourself and get money back, or in some states, the rebate comes off at the point of sale.
The chart below gives a quick side-by-side overview.
| Feature | Weatherization Assistance (WAP) | IRA Rebates (HOMES and HEAR) |
|---|
| Who administers it | U.S. Dept. of Energy, via states and local agencies | State energy offices, via Inflation Reduction Act funding |
| Income limit | Up to 200% FPL (or 60% state median income) | Up to 150% area median income (AMI) |
| Cost to you | Free | You pay upfront, rebate reduces the cost |
| What it covers | Insulation, air sealing, heating/cooling, windows | Heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, insulation, EVs, panels |
| Typical value | Up to $7,000 per household (average varies by state) | Up to $14,000 total (HEAR); HOMES based on % energy savings |
| Income verification | Required at application | Required at application |
| Availability | All 50 states, year-round | Varies by state, many still launching in 2025 to 2026 |
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): The Basics
The Weatherization Assistance Program has existed since 1976 and is one of the longest-running federal energy programs. It is funded by the Department of Energy and delivered by a network of local community action agencies across all 50 states.
When you are approved for WAP, a certified energy auditor visits your home, identifies where energy is being lost, and a contractor completes the work. You do not pay anything out of pocket. The program prioritizes the most effective improvements based on cost-benefit analysis.
What WAP Covers
Common weatherization measures include:
- Attic, wall, and floor insulation
- Air sealing (caulking, weatherstripping, sealing around pipes and ducts)
- Heating and cooling system repair or replacement
- Water heater replacement
- Duct sealing and repair
- Installation of ENERGY STAR certified lighting and appliances (where cost-effective)
- Health and safety measures like carbon monoxide detection and ventilation
The average dollar value of weatherization work per household varies by state but typically ranges from $2,500 to $7,000. Some states with harsher climates or older housing stock provide more extensive services.
WAP Income Limits 2025
To qualify for WAP, your household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, based on 2025 HHS guidelines. Some states use 60% of state median income instead, whichever is higher.
| Household Size | 200% FPL (Annual Income Limit) |
|---|
| 1 person | $31,300 |
| 2 people | $42,700 |
| 3 people | $54,100 |
| 4 people | $65,500 |
| 5 people | $76,900 |
| 6 people | $88,300 |
| 7 people | $99,700 |
| 8 people | $111,100 |
For households larger than 8, add approximately $11,400 per additional person.
Automatic WAP Eligibility
You automatically qualify for WAP if any household member currently receives:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in some states
This automatic eligibility pathway means you do not need to document income separately if you are already enrolled in one of these programs.
How to Apply for WAP
- Find your local weatherization agency using the Department of Energy's agency locator at energy.gov or by calling 211.
- Contact the agency directly. Most require an appointment for an initial intake interview.
- Gather documentation: proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit award letters), proof of home ownership or renter permission, and a recent utility bill.
- An energy auditor will schedule a home visit to assess your home's needs.
- If approved, the agency prioritizes your home and schedules the work. Waitlists vary by area, from a few weeks to several months.
- All work is completed by certified contractors at no cost to you.
Renters can qualify for WAP if their landlord gives permission for the improvements. Some states have specific provisions protecting renters from rent increases after weatherization.
IRA Energy Efficiency Rebates: HOMES and HEAR Programs
The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 allocated $8.8 billion for two home energy rebate programs administered by state energy offices. These are separate from federal tax credits (discussed below).
HEAR Rebates (Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates)
HEAR, sometimes called HEEHRA, provides point-of-purchase rebates for specific electric appliance upgrades. These rebates go to low- and moderate-income households only, defined as households earning up to 150% of area median income.
Rebate amounts under HEAR:
| Upgrade | Maximum Rebate |
|---|
| ENERGY STAR certified heat pump | $8,000 |
| Heat pump water heater | $1,750 |
| Heat pump clothes dryer | $840 |
| Electric cooking range or cooktop | $840 |
| Insulation and air sealing | $1,600 |
| Electrical panel upgrade | $4,000 |
| Wiring upgrades | $2,500 |
| Total household maximum | $14,000 |
Households at or below 80% AMI receive the full rebate amounts. Households between 80% and 150% AMI receive rebates covering up to 50% of the project cost.
HOMES Rebates (Home Efficiency Rebates)
The HOMES program provides rebates based on how much energy your whole-home retrofit actually saves, as measured by a certified energy auditor. Unlike HEAR, HOMES is not restricted to specific appliances and does not have income limits, though low- and moderate-income households (below 80% AMI) receive double the rebate amounts.
HOMES rebate amounts by energy savings:
| Modeled Energy Savings | Standard Rebate | LMI Household Rebate |
|---|
| 20% to 35% | Up to $2,000 | Up to $4,000 |
| 35% or more | Up to $4,000 | Up to $8,000 |
IRA Rebate Availability by State
These programs are administered at the state level, and not all states have launched yet. As of early 2026, states with active programs include Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Maine, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, New York, Rhode Island, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. Other states including Pennsylvania and Texas are still working through the federal approval process and plan to launch later in 2026.
Check your state energy office website for current status and application instructions.
Federal Tax Credits: What Is Still Available in 2026?
This is where things changed significantly. The One Big Beautiful Bill, signed into law on July 4, 2025, ended the Section 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit and the Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit for property placed in service after December 31, 2025.
This means:
- If you completed qualifying improvements in 2025, you can still claim those credits when filing your 2025 taxes.
- Improvements made in 2026 or later are no longer eligible for these federal tax credits.
- The IRA HOMES and HEAR rebate programs were not eliminated and remain active.
The 25C credit had allowed homeowners to claim 30% of costs on qualifying upgrades, up to $3,200 per year. That credit is now expired for new installations.
Which Program Should You Apply For?
The answer depends primarily on your income and whether you own or rent your home.
Apply for WAP if:
- Your income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (see table above)
- You want no-cost improvements with no upfront payment required
- Your home needs insulation, air sealing, or heating system work
- You already receive SSI, TANF, SNAP, or LIHEAP (automatic eligibility)
Apply for IRA rebates (HEAR or HOMES) if:
- Your income is above WAP limits but below 150% of area median income
- You are ready to invest in specific electric appliances (heat pumps, heat pump water heaters)
- Your state has launched its rebate program
- You can cover the upfront cost and receive reimbursement
Apply for both if:
- Your income is very low and you need a full home assessment (WAP) plus you want to add an electric appliance upgrade (HEAR, where available)
- WAP and IRA rebates are not mutually exclusive. Some households complete WAP first and then use HEAR rebates for additional appliance upgrades.
How These Programs Compare to LIHEAP
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is a third energy-related benefit that often gets confused with WAP. LIHEAP pays your heating and cooling bills directly, helping cover monthly costs. WAP fixes the underlying problem by making your home more efficient. They complement each other well.
Many households qualify for both LIHEAP and WAP simultaneously. LIHEAP enrollment can also trigger automatic WAP eligibility in most states. If you are already receiving LIHEAP, ask your local agency about WAP enrollment at the same time.
Want to check whether you qualify for LIHEAP, WAP, SNAP, or other programs at once? Use our free eligibility screener to see what you may be eligible for based on your income and household size.
Application Tips for Both Programs
- Start with WAP if your income is at or below 200% FPL. The work is free and comprehensive.
- Check your state's IRA rebate status before planning major appliance purchases. If your state has not launched, the rebate is not yet available.
- Document your income carefully. Both programs require proof of income. Pay stubs, award letters from SSI or SNAP, or a prior year tax return all work.
- Renters should get written permission from their landlord before applying for WAP. Some states require the landlord to sign off before work begins.
- Do not wait for perfect timing. WAP waitlists can be long. Apply early and let the process move at its own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for the Weatherization Assistance Program in 2025?
The standard WAP income limit is 200% of the federal poverty level. For a single person, that is $31,300 per year. For a family of four, the limit is $65,500 per year. Some states use 60% of state median income if that figure is higher than the 200% FPL threshold.
Can renters apply for weatherization assistance?
Yes. Renters can apply for WAP, but most states require written permission from the landlord before work can begin. Some states also have protections preventing landlords from raising rent after weatherization improvements are completed.
Are IRA energy rebates available in my state?
It depends on your state. As of early 2026, states with active HEAR or HOMES programs include Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Maine, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, New York, Rhode Island, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin. Many other states are still launching. Check your state energy office website for the latest status.
Can I get WAP and IRA rebates at the same time?
Yes. These are separate programs and are not mutually exclusive. You could receive free WAP weatherization services and also apply for HEAR rebates on a heat pump or heat pump water heater, as long as you meet the income requirements for both.
What happened to the Energy Star federal tax credits?
The Section 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit and Section 25D Residential Clean Energy Credit were ended by the One Big Beautiful Bill signed on July 4, 2025. These credits no longer apply to improvements placed in service after December 31, 2025. If you completed qualifying work in 2025, you can still claim those credits on your 2025 tax return.
How long does it take to get weatherization work done after applying?
Timelines vary widely by state and local agency. Some households are served within a few weeks of applying. Others wait several months due to high demand. Households with elderly members, young children, or a person with a disability are typically prioritized.
Does weatherization assistance count as income?
No. Weatherization assistance is a benefit provided in services, not cash, and is not counted as taxable income.
How do I find my local weatherization agency?
The Department of Energy maintains a state-by-state directory. You can also call 211, a free social services hotline available in most areas, and ask for local weatherization or energy assistance programs.
