Pennsylvania Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Quick Facts

• Program components: Cash grant, crisis grant, and LIHEAP Weatherization (administered with community partners).
• Benefit delivery: Cash grants are paid directly to utility companies or fuel vendors; crisis grants resolve emergencies such as shutoff notices or empty fuel tanks.
• Application methods: Online via COMPASS, paper application, or through county assistance offices (CAOs).
• Eligibility threshold: Household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines (FPG), with categorical eligibility for TANF, SNAP, or SSI recipients.
• No repayment required: LIHEAP grants do not need to be repaid and do not count as income for other benefit programs.

Program Overview

Pennsylvania’s LIHEAP is funded by the federal LIHEAP block grant and state funds, offering seasonal support to keep homes warm. The cash component helps offset routine heating costs, while the crisis component addresses urgent situations like utility shutoffs, broken heating systems, or fuel shortages. LIHEAP Weatherization, coordinated through local Weatherization Assistance Program agencies, provides long-term energy efficiency improvements such as insulation and furnace repairs.

Pennsylvania’s heating season can be harsh, making timely LIHEAP applications vital. The program opens each fall—typically November 1—and closes in April, but the exact dates vary each year. Crisis grants remain available until funds run out, sometimes extending into early summer. Applicants are encouraged to apply early because demand often exceeds available resources.

Eligibility Requirements

Income Limits

• Income limits are set at 150% of FPG, adjusted annually. For 2024–2025, a family of four can earn up to approximately $46,560 annually.
• Households receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) automatically meet income criteria.

Residency and Responsibility

• Applicants must reside in Pennsylvania and be responsible for paying heating costs, either directly or included in rent.
• Renters whose heat is included in rent can qualify if the rent is more than 30% of income and they pay for electricity separately.

Documentation

• Provide Social Security numbers and proof of identity for all household members.
• Submit proof of income (pay stubs, award letters), current heating bills, and account numbers for fuel vendors or utilities.
• Crisis applicants must present shutoff notices, termination letters, or proof of low fuel levels.

Benefit Types

Cash Grant (Regular LIHEAP)

• One-time payment ranging from $300 to $1,000, depending on fuel type, household size, and income.
• The grant is credited to your utility account or used to authorize fuel deliveries.

Crisis Grant

• Provides up to $1,000 per season to address emergencies. Examples include:
  • Restoring service after disconnection
  • Delivering fuel when the tank is at or below 15% capacity
  • Repairing or replacing inoperable heating equipment
• Applicants must demonstrate the emergency and contribute resources above $1,000 if available.

LIHEAP Weatherization

• Offers energy-efficiency upgrades like insulation, furnace replacement, and ventilation improvements.
• Administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) through local agencies; LIHEAP applicants are referred automatically.

Application Process

1. Check season dates: Visit DHS’s LIHEAP page for opening and closing dates. Sign up for text alerts or email updates.
2. Gather documents: Collect proof of income, Social Security numbers, utility bills, and landlord verification if applicable.
3. Apply:
   • Online: Use COMPASS (www.compass.state.pa.us) to submit the application and upload documents.
   • Paper: Download the PDF or request a paper form. Mail or deliver it to your county assistance office.
   • In person: Visit your local CAO for help completing the form.
4. Interview (if required): Some CAOs may conduct phone interviews for crisis grants. Respond promptly.
5. Vendor contact: Ensure your utility or fuel vendor participates in LIHEAP. Most major vendors have agreements with DHS.
6. Track status: Use COMPASS to check application progress. You should receive a notice within 30 days.
7. Receive benefit: Approved households see credits on utility bills or receive fuel delivery authorizations. Keep records of deliveries and statements.

Managing Crisis Situations

• Call the LIHEAP hotline (866-857-7095) if you receive a shutoff notice or run out of fuel. Crisis contractors can approve emergency deliveries within 24–48 hours for life-threatening situations.
• Medical certification: If someone in the household has a medical condition worsened by loss of heat, provide documentation to prioritize service.
• Weather emergencies: During extreme cold, DHS may extend crisis hours and open additional funding. Monitor news releases.
• Stay engaged: Even after crisis aid, work with utilities to arrange payment plans and budget billing to prevent future emergencies.

Strategies for Maximizing Support

1. Apply on day one: Early applications ensure you receive the maximum available cash grant before funds deplete.
2. Combine benefits: Pair LIHEAP with utility hardship funds, Customer Assistance Programs (CAP), and Budget Billing to stabilize payments.
3. Request weatherization: Accept referrals for energy audits and upgrades to lower long-term consumption.
4. Document everything: Keep copies of applications, notices, and vendor correspondence in a dedicated folder.
5. Use COMPASS account: Create an online profile to manage applications, submit renewals, and upload documents quickly.
6. Coordinate with landlords: If heat is included in rent, obtain landlord verification forms early to avoid delays.

Common Pitfalls

• Missing deadlines: Waiting until late winter risks missing funds. Apply early and reapply if the application is incomplete.
• Incomplete documentation: Missing Social Security numbers or income proof leads to delays. Double-check before submission.
• Ignoring follow-up requests: CAOs often request additional information. Respond within the specified timeframe to prevent denial.
• Misunderstanding crisis resource requirements: Households must contribute excess resources beyond $1,000 when receiving crisis aid. Be prepared to document available funds.
• Assuming automatic renewal: LIHEAP does not auto-renew. You must apply each season even if circumstances are unchanged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get crisis assistance if I already received the maximum cash grant? Yes. Crisis grants are separate. As long as you meet crisis criteria and have not exceeded the seasonal crisis limit, you can receive additional support.

Do I need to pay taxes on LIHEAP grants? No. Grants are not taxable income.

Can LIHEAP help with cooling bills? Pennsylvania’s LIHEAP focuses on heating. However, during extreme heat emergencies, DHS may authorize limited cooling support. Check announcements each summer.

What if my furnace breaks? Contact the LIHEAP crisis hotline immediately. Crisis contractors can arrange furnace repairs or replacements within 18–24 hours when no heat is available.

Does LIHEAP cover water bills? No. LIHEAP covers heating and sometimes electric costs tied to heating systems. For water assistance, explore the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) if available.

Additional Resources

• Pennsylvania LIHEAP Information
• LIHEAP Customer Service: 866-857-7095 (hearing impaired: 711).
• PA Utility Commission: Resources on customer assistance programs and shutoff protections.
• Community Action Agencies: Offer weatherization and energy budgeting workshops—find your local agency via the Community Action Association of Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania’s LIHEAP is a lifeline during winter months. By applying early, keeping thorough records, and coordinating with community partners, households can secure both immediate relief and longer-term energy stability.