PENNSLYVANIA — Pennsylvanians who struggle with home heating bills can apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Delayed by a month due to the federal government shutdown, applications for LIHEAP grant funds are set to open on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The program will run until April 18, 2026.

What is LIHEAP?

LIHEAP is a federally funded statewide program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). It helps individuals and families living on low incomes pay their heating bills through a cash grant or crisis grant, if applicable. Crisis grants could include emergencies such as broken equipment or termination of service.

During the 2022-2023 LIHEAP season, 312,169 households statewide received more than $125 million in LIHEAP cash benefits, and these households received an average season benefit of $402, according to DHS data. During the 2025-2026 program year, eligible recipients could receive a cash grant of $200 to $1,000 to help pay their heating bill, based on household size, income, and fuel type. The grant will be sent directly to the recipient's utility provider or fuel company to be credited to their bill.

In addition to LIHEAP cash grants, the program also offers crisis benefits for those experiencing a heating emergency. A heating emergency could include broken equipment, a lack of fuel, the shutdown of the heating source, or the danger of having service terminated. Eligible applicants will receive benefits within 10 business days of submitting their application.

Who is eligible for LIHEAP?

The income limit for LIHEAP is 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. For an individual, this translates to a gross annual income of $23,475, and for a family of four, it is $48,225.

To be eligible for the program:

• You must meet income guidelines
• You don't have to be on public assistance
• You don't need to have unpaid heating bills
• You can rent or own your home

LIHEAP partnered with utility companies

How can I apply?

Pennsylvanians can apply for LIHEAP online, at a local County Assistance Office, or by phone at 1-866-857-7095