Quick answer
Utility relief programs help pay energy, water, and phone bills. The main one is LIHEAP, a federal program run by each state, which pays part of heating or cooling bills and must give crisis help within 48 hours of a complete application, or 18 hours if a life is at risk. Weatherization lowers bills for the long term, and Lifeline discounts phone or internet service. Applying is free, and your utility and 211 can point you to local funds.
Find utility help in your state
LIHEAP is the main federal program — your state runs it.
Utility help by need
Match your situation to the right program first. Each guide explains who qualifies and how to apply.
| Need | Where to start | Our guide |
|---|---|---|
| Shutoff notice or service already off | Your utility, then LIHEAP crisis help | Gas shutoff assistance |
| Help with a heating or cooling bill | Your state LIHEAP office | LIHEAP guide |
| High bills from a drafty home | Weatherization Assistance Program | Weatherization guide |
| Broken or no air conditioning | LIHEAP cooling help and local programs | Air conditioner programs |
| Help from a church or charity | 211 and local congregations | Churches that help with utility bills |
| Living in Texas | CEAP through your local agency | Texas utility assistance |
| Living in Florida | LIHEAP through your local agency | LIHEAP Florida |
Before your service is shut off
Call your utility company first. Most have hardship programs, payment plans, and shutoff protections they don't advertise. Many states also limit shutoffs during extreme cold or heat, and many protect homes where someone has a serious medical condition. Ask: "What hardship programs and payment plans do you offer, and do I qualify for shutoff protection?" Then apply for LIHEAP crisis help, which federal rules require within 48 hours of a complete application (18 hours if a life is at risk).
The main utility relief programs
- LIHEAP: the federal energy assistance program, run by your state or local agency. It covers regular heating and cooling help, crisis help for shutoffs, and sometimes furnace repair. Benefits are usually paid straight to the utility and are never repaid.
- Weatherization (WAP): free insulation, air sealing, and repairs that cut bills for years.
- Lifeline: a monthly discount on phone or internet service for households with low income or on programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or the Veterans Pension.
- Water bills: the federal water program (LIHWAP) is no longer funded, so ask your water utility about hardship plans and call 211 for local funds.
Income limits for LIHEAP
States set their own LIHEAP income limits, up to 150% of the federal poverty guidelines or 60% of state median income, whichever is higher. Many states use 150% of poverty. Using the 2026 HHS poverty guidelines ($15,960 for one person, plus $5,680 for each extra person), 150% works out to:
| Household size | 150% of 2026 poverty guideline (yearly) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $23,940 |
| 2 | $32,460 |
| 3 | $40,980 |
| 4 | $49,500 |
Your state may use a different figure or an older year's guidelines, so confirm the limit with your LIHEAP office. Households receiving SNAP often qualify for several of these programs more easily.
Frequently asked questions
Is LIHEAP a loan?
No. LIHEAP benefits are usually paid directly to your utility or fuel supplier and are never repaid.
How fast can I get help with a shutoff notice?
Federal rules require LIHEAP crisis help within 48 hours of a complete application, or within 18 hours if a life is at risk. Call your utility the same day to ask for a hold or payment plan.
When should I apply for LIHEAP?
As early as you can. Many states open heating applications in the fall, and funds can run out, so apply as soon as your state opens.
Is there help with water bills?
The federal water program, LIHWAP, is no longer funded. Ask your water utility about hardship and payment plans, and call 211 for local charity or city funds.
Does it cost anything to apply?
No. LIHEAP, weatherization, and Lifeline are free to apply for. LIHEAP does not charge fees, so anyone asking for a fee to get you a grant is a scammer.
Sources
Facts on this page were checked against these sources on October 25, 2026. If a source and this page ever disagree, follow the source.
- HHS Administration for Children and Families: LIHEAP
- LIHEAP Clearinghouse: find your state LIHEAP office
- HHS ACF: Low Income Household Water Assistance Program
- U.S. Department of Energy: Weatherization Assistance Program
- FCC: Lifeline program for low-income consumers
- HHS ASPE: Poverty guidelines
- 211.org
This page is general information, not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an application. National Relief Program is an independent website, not a government agency. Applying for official programs is always free.
Before you apply: program rules, amounts, and deadlines change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program administrator. Applying for government benefits is free.
National Relief Program is an independent guide, not a government agency. Spotted an error? Email support@nationalreliefprogram.org.