Home heating help program begins today

Aid is available for renters and homeowners

“We know that the pandemic and economic downturn have made it difficult for many to keep up with home energy bills.” — state Department of Human Services Secretary Teresa Miller

The application process for Pennsylvania’s annual Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program opens today.

The program, also known as LIHEAP, provides assistance for home heating bills so low-income residents can stay warm and safe during the winter. Assistance is available for renters and homeowners. The application period ends April 9.

“We know that the pandemic and economic downturn have made it difficult for many to keep up with home energy bills,” said state Department of Human Services Secretary Teresa Miller.

“As winter approaches and we prepare to spend more time indoors, these bills may only get more expensive,” Miller said. “I encourage everyone who may need assistance, or who has a loved one or neighbor that could benefit from this program to urge them to apply for LIHEAP. No one should feel like they have to choose whether they should heat their home because they are worried about making ends meet.”

Kristen Rotz, president of the United Way of Pennsylvania and executive director of Pennsylvania 211, advised those who are falling behind on utility bills to reach out immediately for help.

“PA 211 is one place you can turn,” Rotz said. “Simply dial 2-1-1, or text your ZIP code to 898-211 to speak with a resource navigator who will search for utility assistance that may be available in your area. 2-1-1 can also give you instructions about how to apply for LIHEAP.”

During the 2019-20 LIHEAP

season, 312,140 households statewide received nearly $88.7 million in cash benefits. These households received an average season benefit of $284.

The minimum cash benefit that can be received is $200 and the maximum is $1000. The crisis maximum — the benefit for people who meet the poverty limits and are in jeopardy of their heating utility service being terminated — is being raised to $800, from last year’s $600.

The income limit for the program is 150% of the federal poverty limit. For a household of three, this would be $32,580 gross income per year and for a household of four would be $39,300 per year.

Pennsylvanians do not need to know their own eligibility in order to apply. Those who applied and were denied previously but have experienced a change in circumstances can reapply.

Pennsylvanians can apply for LIHEAP and other public assistance programs online at www. compass.state.pa.us.

Those who prefer to submit paper applications can print from the website or request an application by phone at 1-800-6927462 and mail it to their local county assistance office or place it in that office’s secure drop box, if available.

For more information on LIHEAP, visit dhs. pa.gov.