What is this? The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP provides money to help individuals with energy bills and other energy-related expenses. LIHEAP is funded through the federal government and works with state agencies and community action partners to qualify customers and distribute assistance.
Do I qualify? Louisiana Housing Corporation establishes that eligible households make 60% of the state median income or less and must have an active utility account that they are responsible for. Other eligibility requirements may apply. The income limits can be found here
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Do I need any documents? Louisiana Housing Corporation requires that you submit documentation to your community action partner to prove your eligibility. Those documents are as follows and can also be found here:
- Applicant’s government-issued photo ID and Social Security card
- Proof of total members living in the household and their Social Security cards (exceptions may apply)
- Proof of present address (rent receipt, lease or deed, etc.)
- Utility bills no older than 30 days
- Check stubs from the previous 30 days for all employed household members
- Proof of unearned income (Social Security, Unemployment Insurance, Retirement, Disability, etc.)
- Disconnect or pending disconnection notice if applicable
- Additional information may be required
How much help can I get? The amount of assistance a household can receive depends on a variety of factors set by the federal government and Louisiana Housing Corporation. You may qualify for up to three payments every year, as follows:
- Winter heating program (11/15/2024 to 3/15/2025): $200 to $800
- Summer cooling program (04/01/2025 to 09/30/2025): $200 to $800
- Year-round crisis program (10/01/2024 to 09/30/2025): Up to $1,000 for households that have been disconnected, have been notified of an upcoming disconnection and/or are facing an emergency or health and safety issue as determined by the state.
How long does it take? Community action partners work as quickly as they can to qualify applicants and provide utility assistance. Crisis situations are prioritized. Households with adults aged 60 and older, individuals with disabilities, young children and/or high energy burdens are also prioritized.The process should not take more than 60 days.
How do I apply? You can apply for LIHEAP by picking up and dropping off an application at your local agency.
Total Community Action
1410 S. Norman C. Francis Parkway
New Orleans, Louisiana 70125