Some Americans who are struggling to pay their bills may be lucky enough to qualify for assistance worth up to $1,000 per year.
This is through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
The program is also known as LIHEAP.
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Low Income Energy Assistance Program explained
This program is designed to help families with their heat and energy if they need the assistance.
It covers heating and cooling costs, energy related repairs in the home, and energy crisis assistance.
It greatly benefits those who need the help in summer and winter.
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Those receiving the help can see between $200 and $1,000 per year.
States run the program.
Some states give the grants out one time per year and others do it a few times.
Eligibility for assistance
States determine eligibility, but for the most part they follow federal income guidelines.
This means a household of one cannot exceed an income of $19,320.
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A family of four cannot earn more than $39,750.
If you collect other benefits like SNAP, SSI, or TANF you may qualify automatically.
How to apply for the assistance
You may apply directly to your state.
Call LIHEAP directly for questions and 1-866-674-6327.
Even if you qualify, you may not get the benefits.
Around 20% of people that qualify get the help.
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