LIEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program) is a federally-funded program that provides a one-time payment to help eligible individuals and families pay their heating bills.
Who is eligible?
The person applying must:
- Be responsible for home heating costs
- Have a gross income that falls at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Have less than $2,250 in savings
People who live in public housing and/or receive rental assistance are not eligible unless they pay for their own heating/cooling costs directly to a utility company (instead of paying a portion of their rent for utilities). The amount of the LIEAP heating benefit is determined by income, household size, utility type, and heating region. All payments will go directly to the utility companies.
When can I apply?
The application period is from December 1 – March 31. ONLY households with someone over the age of 60 or receiving assistance from the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services may apply December 1 – December 31. All other households may apply January 1 – March 31, or until funds run out. Assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, so apply as soon as you are eligible.
Where and how do I apply?
The application process is handled by the Department of Social Services (DSS) in your area. Households can apply:
- Online at epass.nc.gov
- Over the phone by calling your county department of social services
- Through mail/fax by printing a paper application from www.epass.nc.gov. You can also drop off at your county department of social services
Have the following documentation ready when you apply:
- ID and verification of citizenship/alien status
- Proof of income for members of the household age 18 and older (pay stubs from the last month, latest benefit letter from Social Security, or your most current tax records)
- Social Security card or letter from Social Security Administration or social service agency showing age and Social Security number
- Copy of your most recent utility bill
- Copy of your current tax bill, mortgage, or rental lease showing proof of address.
- Documents that show unearned income (public benefits, private retirement, etc.)
Need more information?
If you didn’t find what you need on this page or need more information on local resources, dial 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162. Our call specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Source: NCDHHS
Last updated 12/2/2022
