Energy is an important part of daily living. The lack of energy to cool or heat one’s home can lead to health and safety hazards and problems. However, there are people who live on a modest income and are therefore are in need of energy assistance to keep their homes comfortable and safe.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, provides financial support to low income families for their heating and cooling payments. Established in 1981, LIHEAP continues to provide energy assistance to qualified families through annual funding by the House of Congress.

Eligibility for LIHEAP differs greatly from one grantee to another. Generally, the LIHEAP bill declares that an individual is eligible if one member of his household is also receiving the following forms of federal assistance:

• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
• Supplemental Security Income
• Food Stamps
• Certain needs tested Veteran Benefits.

In addition, program policies state that Income eligibility criteria for LIHEAP may not be placed lower than 110% of the poverty level.

Other criteria for eligibility include passing an assets exam; nonsubsidized housing; living with a household member who is disabled, elderly, or is a young child; or receipt of a utility disconnection notice.

The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) facilitates the distribution of funds for every state.