LOW INCOME HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE FAQ FY2020
What is LIHEAP and how can LIHEAP help me?
LIHEAP, which stands for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, is a federal
program that helps low income households pay for heating or cooling their homes. This
program will help you pay your energy bill for heating or cooling your home.
I have applied and received LIHEAP heating assistance this program year. Can I
still apply for LIHEAP cooling assistance?
Yes, each household is eligible to apply for one heating assistance and one cooling
assistance per program year.
I was denied LIHEAP heating assistance this program year. Am I eligible for
LIHEAP cooling assistance?
LIHEAP heating and cooling assistance adhere to the same eligibility guidelines. You
will need to contact your local community action agency to determine eligibility for
cooling assistance.
Will LIHEAP pay for my whole utility bill?
Your benefit amount is determined by your household size, income, and if there are
seniors present in the home. For the cooling program, eligible households will receive
$350.00 or $400.00 toward their energy costs.
How soon can I apply for cooling assistance?
You will need to contact your local Community Action Agency to determine the date that
you will be able to apply for cooling assistance.
Can I apply for heating and cooling assistance at the same time?
No, both programs cannot accept applications at the same time. Therefore, heating
assistance will end on April 30, 2020.
Will I still be able to apply for heating assistance after April 30, 2020?
No, heating assistance will end on April 30 and cooling assistance will begin on May 1.
You will need to contact your local Community Action Agency to determine how the
program will accept applications and if any demographic will receive priority service.
Can I complete a cooling assistance application online?
No, as with heating assistance, you must go the local Community Action Agency that
covers your county to apply for cooling benefits.
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LOW INCOME HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE FAQ FY2020
What do I need to bring to the appointment?
You will need to check with your local Community Action Agency for the information
needed for the intake process. Examples of information needed will include picture
identification, social security cards for each member in the household, proof of income
for the past 30 days, current electric bill and heating bill, etc.
Can LIHEAP help with my water bill?
No, LIHEAP assistance can only be used for heating or cooling.
How long will it take to get my benefits if I am eligible?
There are different processes for each Community Action Agency. You must continue to
pay your bill while the agency is processing your application.
What is the application process for LIHEAP assistance?
You will need to contact your local Community Action Agency to schedule an Intake
Appointment to complete the application. Once the application process is completed
the agency will inform you if you are eligible for the benefit. Again, continue to pay your
bill to avoid any disconnection while your application is in process.
If I live in one county, can I go to another county to complete my application?
No, you must complete your application in the county where you live.
How do I know if I am eligible for the LIHEAP Program?
Basic consideration is:
1. Have a total gross income at or below 60% of the State Median Income
Guidelines for Georgia
2. Be responsible for paying the cost of energy for the household or be able to
verify an energy burden
3. Be a US citizen or lawfully admitted immigrant
Where do I apply for LIHEAP assistance?
You must contact your local Community Action Agency to schedule an appointment to
complete a LIHEAP application. Local Georgia Community Action Agencies can be
found online at http://www.georgiacaa.org/membership/agency-finder/