Help may be available for your heating costs.
With heating and energy costs rising each year, more people are seeking assistance. Help is available for heating bills and energy-related home repairs through the federal government and state and local programs. These funds are mostly for low-income individuals and for those going through temporary or unanticipated difficulties, such as illness or sudden job loss. If a family is not qualified for assistance at the federal level, help can often be found at one of the state or municipal charities. Some energy companies also offer assistance with payment options and credit lines, which can help customers through a tough time.
LIHEAP
LIHEAP stands for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance program, a grant program set up by the federal government to help pay heating and cooling bills for those who qualify. This program is available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. It is also available to state and federally recognized Native American tribes. LIHEAP offers low-income families bill payment and energy crisis assistance for home energy repairs. Applications are available online and at most state and federal assistance agencies. You need to supply proof of residency and income, social security numbers or birth certificates for everyone living in the home, and energy bills.
Citizens Energy
Citizens Energy is an assistance program available in 17 states. Through a network of oil dealers and other fuel assistance programs, it offers free or discounted fuel to those who use oil heat. If eligible, Citizens will provide a onetime delivery of 100 gallons of oil. Even if you do not qualify for other programs, Citizens Energy may still be able to help out.
Local Charities
Many churches and local charities offer assistance to families needing help paying heating bills. Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army and your local gas and electric companies often have heating assistance specific to your area. Check with your local county or municipal government for information on whom to contact in your state.
Lower your Bills
There are several things you can do to make your energy bills more manageable. Lower the temperature on your water heater. Even a slight decrease in temperature can have a positive effect on your bills without lowering the comfort level when you shower. Close the damper on your wood stove or fireplace when not in use. Heat can leak out through the damper when there is no fire burning. Invest in a programmable thermostat so you can lower your heat when no one is home. Winterize the windows by caulking or sealing with plastic specially made for this purpose. Plastic window seals are available in most hardware stores.
Tags: Citizens Energy, available states, energy bills, federal government, heating bills, Help available
