The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) provides a one-time heating supplement for low-income families. Applications for this year started Dec. 2 and run through March (or until funds are exhausted).
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With winter temperatures inevitable, heating bills will increase for many people. That's why Wake County Human Services has help available for those who need it.
"We do have the Low Income Energy Assistance Program to help individuals keep the heat on during winter. It provides a one time payment of $200, $300 or $400, that goes toward their heating costs.It goes directly to the provider of their heating," Janny Mealor said.
Mealor said that applies to heat generated by natural gas, electricity, coal, even wood, Recipients can budget money they get from the LIEAP program over the heating season, or use it to pay a single big bill.
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She said the amount received will depend "on the household size, how many are in the household and how much their income is as well as their heating source."
To apply for the program, you can access the application form at any of the following locations:
- Northern Regional Center, 350 E. Holding Ave., Wake Forest
- Eastern Regional Center, 1002 Dogwood Dr., Zebulon
- Southern Regional Center, 130 N. Judd Parkway, NE, Fuquay-Varina
- Human Services Swinburne Center, 220 Swinburne St., Raleigh
For the month of December, applicants must be at least 60 years old or have someone in the household who is that age. Those now receiving assistance from the Wake County Division of Adult and Aging Services also qualify.
However the age restriction will be lifted starting January 2.
To be eligible for the program, a person must:
- Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets eligibility criteria
- Have income equal to or less than 130 percent of the federal poverty limit
- Have resources, such as saving and checking accounts, cash on hand, at or below $2,250
- Be responsible for their heating cost