Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP)

Quick Facts

• Program type: Federal LIHEAP-funded assistance administered by the Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) to help with home heating costs.
• Benefit delivery: Grants paid directly to fuel vendors or utility companies. Participants can also access budget billing, arrearage retirement, and referrals to energy efficiency programs.
• Application cycle: Year-round intake, with priority processing before and during the heating season (October–May).
• Complementary programs: Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP) for electric bills and Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) for budget billing and shutoff protections.
• Accessibility: Applications available online, by mail, and at local offices; interpreters and accessibility accommodations provided on request.

Program Overview

Maryland’s MEAP is designed to prevent energy insecurity by reducing heating costs for low-income households. Administered by OHEP within the Department of Human Services, the program provides annual grants based on household size, income, energy costs, and vulnerability factors (such as seniors, children, or medical needs). MEAP works alongside EUSP and the Arrearage Retirement Assistance (ARA) program, which forgive past-due electric balances for eligible customers.

MEAP is not a loan. Once approved, the grant is paid directly to your utility or fuel supplier, reducing the amount you owe. Households receiving deliverable fuels (oil, propane, wood, coal) receive vendor authorizations for deliveries. Participants also receive budgeting assistance and referrals to weatherization services through the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

Eligibility Requirements

Income Guidelines

• OHEP sets income limits at 175% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For 2024–2025, a family of four can earn up to about $54,600 annually.
• Income includes wages, Social Security, unemployment, child support, and self-employment earnings. Provide documentation for all members aged 18 or older.

Residency and Energy Responsibility

• Applicants must live in Maryland and be responsible for home heating bills, either directly or through rent.
• Renters qualify if they pay utility bills separately or if their rent exceeds 30% of income and includes heat.

Documentation

• Provide photo IDs, Social Security numbers or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs), and proof of residency (lease, mortgage statement, utility bill).
• Submit income documentation for the past 30 days (pay stubs, award letters, proof of child support).
• Provide the latest utility bill or fuel delivery statement showing account numbers and balances.

Application Process

1. Obtain an application: Download from the OHEP website, call 1-800-332-6347 to request a mailed packet, or visit your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office.
2. Complete the form: Provide household demographics, income details, fuel type, and vendor information. Check the boxes to apply simultaneously for MEAP, EUSP, and ARA.
3. Gather documents: Assemble copies of IDs, Social Security cards/ITINs, income proof, and utility bills. If you lack documents, contact OHEP for assistance.
4. Submit: Mail, upload via the OHEP online portal, fax, or drop off at your local office. Keep copies of everything submitted.
5. Interview (if needed): Some counties conduct telephone interviews. Respond promptly to scheduling calls.
6. Track status: Use the myDHR portal or call your local office to verify receipt and processing status. Processing typically takes 30–45 days in peak season, faster in summer.
7. Receive decision: Approval notices show grant amounts and vendor payment details. Payments appear on utility bills within 4–6 weeks.

Benefits and Services

Annual Heating Grant

• Amounts range from $150 to $2,400 based on fuel type, consumption, income, and vulnerability. Deliverable fuel customers may receive larger grants due to higher per-unit costs.
• Grants are applied to current bills or future deliveries; funds cannot be converted to cash.

Arrearage Retirement Assistance (ARA)

• Forgives up to $2,000 in past-due electric balances once every five years for eligible households. Requires enrollment in EUSP/USPP.

Utility Service Protection Program (USPP)

• Provides budget billing to spread payments evenly and protects against shutoff during the heating season for participating households who make agreed payments.

Weatherization Referrals

• MEAP applicants are referred to DHCD Weatherization Assistance for insulation, air sealing, and heating system upgrades.

Strategies for a Strong Application

1. Apply early in the season: Submitting between October and December ensures benefits are credited before cold weather peaks.
2. Bundle programs: Check the box to apply for EUSP and ARA simultaneously. This streamlines assistance and can address past due balances.
3. Maintain contact with vendors: Inform your utility or fuel supplier when you apply; they may delay shutoffs while OHEP processes your case.
4. Organize documents: Use a folder labeled with your case number to store all correspondence, receipts, and payment confirmations.
5. Update OHEP promptly: Report address changes, new household members, or income changes within 10 days to keep benefits accurate.
6. Seek budgeting support: Participate in DSS financial counseling to stretch the grant and manage ongoing expenses.

Common Pitfalls

• Missing documents: Applications without Social Security numbers or income proof are delayed. If you cannot locate documents, request help immediately rather than submitting incomplete forms.
• Late re-certification: MEAP requires annual reapplication. Submit at least 45 days before your current benefit year ends to avoid gaps.
• Ignoring vendor communication: Utilities may still send bills. Continue making minimum payments to avoid shutoff until grants post.
• Not participating in budget billing: Declining USPP budget billing may result in large winter bills that exceed the grant.
• Misunderstanding grant amount: MEAP does not cover all costs. Plan to pay remaining balances and consider energy-saving upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can undocumented immigrants apply? Yes, households can use ITINs. Mixed-status households are eligible if at least one member has a valid SSN or ITIN and all other requirements are met.

Does MEAP cover cooling costs? MEAP focuses on heating, but OHEP clients are automatically screened for the Electric Universal Service Program, which offers summer protections and bill assistance.

What if my heating system breaks? Contact OHEP immediately. They can coordinate crisis funds or refer you to DHCD programs for emergency repairs.

Can I receive MEAP if I have a payment arrangement with my utility? Yes. MEAP grants reduce your outstanding balance, and you can maintain or renegotiate payment arrangements after the grant posts.

How often can I receive ARA? Once every five years per account, provided you meet eligibility and maintain current payments afterwards.

Additional Resources

• Office of Home Energy Programs
• OHEP Call Center: 1-800-332-6347
• 211 Maryland: Connects residents to energy assistance, weatherization, and housing services.
• Maryland Energy Administration: Offers appliance rebates and energy efficiency incentives that complement MEAP grants.

The Maryland Energy Assistance Program provides a comprehensive package of support for households facing high heating costs. By applying early, bundling related programs, and staying engaged with utility providers, you can keep your home safe and warm throughout the winter.