Up to $1,350 to Help Cover Summer Heat and Utility Bills: How to Apply for Assistance

High temperatures this summer could lead to more expensive electricity bills.

Households struggling to cover those costs may qualify for a federal benefit that, in some states, provides up to $1,350 to help pay electricity or natural gas bills.

The assistance is available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Why it matters: Keeping the air conditioner running can be essential during a heat wave, but it also creates an added financial burden for many low-income households.

Summer Heat Brings Higher Energy Bills Across the U.S.

In addition to increased electricity use from air conditioning, energy prices have also risen.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), electricity prices are 5.9% higher than they were a year ago, while residential natural gas service has increased by nearly 3%

LIHEAP summer energy assistance can help you cover utility bills – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Against this backdrop, LIHEAP summer energy assistance remains one of the primary resources available to help eligible households pay for essential utility services during the summer months.

Up to $1,350 in Assistance, Depending on Your State

Although benefits vary based on where an applicant lives, household income, and available funding, several states have already announced estimated benefit amounts for this year.

LIHEAP summer energy assistance can help you cover utility bills – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Confirmed assistance includes:

Florida: $400 to $1,350

California: Up to $932

Arizona: $160 to $640

Alabama: $320 to $520

In most cases, the funds are not paid directly to recipients. Instead, they are applied as a credit to the applicant’s electricity or natural gas utility account.

Who Can Apply for LIHEAP Summer Energy Assistance?

LIHEAP is primarily intended for low-income households that are struggling to pay utility bills. Each state establishes its own eligibility requirements, but agencies generally consider factors such as:

Household income

Number of people living in the home

Cost of electricity or natural gas bills

LIHEAP summer energy assistance can help you cover utility bills – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Many states also give priority to:

Older adults

People with disabilities

Families with young children

Households that have received a utility shutoff notice

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How to Apply for Help Paying Summer Utility Bills

Applicants should locate the LIHEAP office serving their state or county and verify that the application period is still open.

Applicants are generally required to provide:

A government-issued ID

Proof of household income

A recent electricity or natural gas bill

Depending on the state, applications may be submitted online, by phone at 1-866-674-6327, or in person at the appropriate state or local office.

If a household does not qualify for LIHEAP, it may still be worthwhile to contact its electricity or natural gas provider about payment plans, discounts for low-income customers, or other local assistance programs that can help offset higher summer utility bills.