LIHEAP Delayed Opening:
​Due to the federal government shutdown and lack of federal funding, the 2025-2026 LIHEAP season is delayed until December 3, 2025, contingent on availability of federal funding. If the federal government does not reopen or funding is not released to states, Pennsylvania will be unable to begin the normal LIHEAP season until funding is received.
Regular LIHEAP Cash and Crisis applications will not be accepted until the season opens. LIHEAP Cash preseason applications are still being accepted, but payments and notices will not be sent until the federal shutdown ends. If you need immediate heating help, call 2-1-1 or visit pa-navigate.org.
Find FAQs about the shutdown and resources for impacted customers.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income households pay some energy costs associated with heating their home. LIHEAP is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). Check the below table to see if you and your family qualify. The LIHEAP season will open on December 3, 2025.
2025 FEDERAL INCOME GUIDELINES: LIHEAP
| 1 |
$1,883 |
$22,596 |
| 2 |
$2,555 |
$30,660 |
| 3 |
$3,228 |
$38,730 |
| 4 |
$3,900 |
$46,800 |
| 5 |
$4,573 |
$54,870 |
| 6 |
$5,245 |
$62,940 |
| Each additional |
$673 |
$8,076 |
Please note, if you have received an increase in benefits due to the cost-of-living adjustment, you may still be qualified for LIHEAP funding. Please refer to
LIHEAP (pa.gov) for additional information and County Assistance Office locations.
CASH GRANTS
You do not need to have an unpaid balance to qualify. LIHEAP grants can be applied to a past balance in order to establish service at a new address. The amount allowed to post against prior bills is limited to 50% to ensure a portion of the LIHEAP cash grant goes toward future energy needs.
TO APPLY FOR A CASH GRANT, YOU’LL NEED THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:
- Name and date of birth for all household members
- Proof of income for all household members
- Social Security Numbers for all household members
- A copy of your most recent utility bill (both electric and gas if appropriate)
HOW TO APPLY:
- Apply using COMPASS, the online tool for Pennsylvanians to apply for health and human service programs.
- Visit one of the local county assistance offices listed below to file an application.
- Call the LIHEAP Client Helpline at 1-866-857-7095, Monday through Friday. Individuals with hearing impairments may call the TDD number at 1-800-451-5866.
- LIHEAP applicants have the option to share certain application information directly with public utilities. This can help you access utility assistance programs more easily. Your household may be eligible for a discount on your energy bill and/or additional benefits, including debt forgiveness. Learn more about how your information is shared.