2026 LIHEAP Energy Assistance by State
Last updated: January 2026 | Source: HHS Administration for Children and Families (ACF)
LIHEAP helps low-income households pay for heating and cooling costs. Income limits vary by state. Most states set the limit at 150% of the Federal Poverty Level ($48,225 per year for a family of four), while some states set higher thresholds up to 300% FPL. Check the table below to find your state's specific income limit.
Not sure if you qualify for benefits?
Our free screener checks 20+ programs in under 3 minutes.
Check My EligibilityLIHEAP Income Limits by State (Family of 4)
Each state sets its own LIHEAP income threshold as a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level. The dollar amounts below are for a household of four. Alaska and Hawaii have higher FPL base amounts, so their dollar limits are higher even at the same percentage.
| State | Income Basis | Limit % | Income Limit (Family of 4) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Alaska | FPL | 150% | $60,282 |
| Arizona | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Arkansas | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| California | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Colorado | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Connecticut | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Delaware | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| District of Columbia | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Florida | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Georgia | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Hawaii | SMI | 60% | $22,184 |
| Idaho | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Illinois | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Indiana | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Iowa | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Kansas | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Kentucky | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Louisiana | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Maine | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Maryland | FPL | 200% | $64,300 |
| Massachusetts | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Michigan | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Minnesota | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Mississippi | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Missouri | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Montana | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Nebraska | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Nevada | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| New Hampshire | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| New Jersey | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| New Mexico | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| New York | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| North Carolina | FPL | 130% | $41,795 |
| North Dakota | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Ohio | FPL | 175% | $56,263 |
| Oklahoma | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Oregon | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Pennsylvania | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Rhode Island | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| South Carolina | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| South Dakota | FPL | 200% | $64,300 |
| Tennessee | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Texas | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Utah | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Vermont | FPL | 185% | $59,478 |
| Virginia | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| Washington | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
| West Virginia | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Wisconsin | SMI | 60% | $19,290 |
| Wyoming | FPL | 150% | $48,225 |
Income limits are based on gross household income. Alaska and Hawaii have higher FPL guidelines. Contact your state LIHEAP office for exact eligibility rules.
Source: HHS Administration for Children and Families (ACF)
How to Apply for LIHEAP
LIHEAP applications are handled at the state or local level. Here is how to get started:
- Find your local office - Contact your state's LIHEAP agency or local Community Action Agency
- Gather documents - You will need proof of income, a recent utility bill, Social Security numbers for household members, and proof of residency
- Apply during the open period - Most states accept heating applications from October through March
- Check for crisis assistance - If you face a utility shutoff or have no fuel, emergency assistance may be available year-round
- Look into weatherization - Many states offer free home weatherization to reduce future energy costs
Not sure if you qualify for benefits?
Our free screener checks 20+ programs in under 3 minutes.
Check My EligibilityFrequently Asked Questions
What is LIHEAP and who qualifies?
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) is a federally funded program that helps low-income households pay for heating and cooling costs. Eligibility is based on household income, typically at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level, though some states set higher limits. Priority is given to households with elderly members, disabled individuals, and young children.
How much money can I receive from LIHEAP?
LIHEAP benefit amounts vary by state, household size, income level, and energy costs. Most states provide between $200 and $1,000 per heating season, though some states offer more. Benefits are usually paid directly to your utility company or fuel provider, not to you.
When can I apply for LIHEAP?
LIHEAP application periods vary by state. Most states open applications in the fall (October or November) for winter heating assistance. Some states also offer summer cooling assistance with separate application periods. Contact your state LIHEAP office or local Community Action Agency for exact dates.
Does LIHEAP cover electricity, gas, and other fuels?
Yes. LIHEAP can help with heating and cooling costs regardless of fuel type, including electricity, natural gas, propane, oil, wood, and kerosene. The program covers both regulated utility bills and bulk fuel purchases. Some states also offer weatherization and crisis assistance for emergency shutoffs.
Can I get LIHEAP if I receive SNAP or Medicaid?
Receiving SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or TANF does not automatically qualify you for LIHEAP, but it is a strong indicator that you may be eligible since those programs have similar or lower income thresholds. You must still apply separately for LIHEAP and meet your state's specific income requirements.