Alabama Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Alabama’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps residents with low-income pay their energy bills. Managed by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) and administered through local Community Action Agencies (CAAs), LIHEAP provides financial help to eligible families to help cover home energy costs, especially heating during the colder months. Since funding is limited, the type and amount of assistance you receive depends on your household and available funding. ## How does Alabama LIHEAP work? Alabama LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps people with low incomes pay their home energy bills—mainly for heating, with some limited cooling assistance available depending on funding—so you can stay safe and comfortable during extreme temperatures. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for one or more types of help through the program. Payments are sent directly to your utility company or vendor. Types of help include: - **Heating Assistance**: Helps pay for home heating costs during cold months. The amount you receive depends on your household size, income, and energy needs, up to the maximum amount allowed by the program. - **Cooling Assistance**: Helps pay for cooling costs during hot weather to keep your home safe and comfortable. Some households may also receive extra support depending on program rules and available funding. - **Crisis Assistance**: Crisis assistance is available if your household is at immediate risk—such as having your utilities shut off, running out of fuel, or facing unsafe heating or cooling conditions. - **Weatherization Assistance**: You may also be referred to the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), a separate program that helps improve your home’s energy efficiency. If you qualify, most households receive one primary benefit per season, though the exact type and number of payments can vary based on funding and program rules. If you also qualify for crisis assistance, you may receive additional help to address urgent energy needs. **Note: **“Vulnerable households” may be able to apply earlier. Some households—such as those with older adults, people with disabilities, or young children—may be given priority when applications open. Contact your local LIHEAP office for more details. ## Who can get help from Alabama LIHEAP? To qualify for LIHEAP in Alabama, you must meet a few rules. These include: - You must be an Alabama resident - Your household income may not exceed 150% of the [Federal Poverty Level (FPL)](https://aspe.hhs.gov/topics/poverty-economic-mobility/poverty-guidelines) ## How do I apply for Alabama LIHEAP? To apply for LIHEAP in Alabama, you must contact your[ local LIHEAP office](https://adeca.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/LIHEAPRegionsMap.pdf) to schedule an appointment. During your appointment, you will complete an application. Be sure to bring the required documents with you: - Photo ID - Social Security Cards for all members of the household - Proof of income for the previous month for all adults over the age of 18 - Utility bill in your name ## How can I get help with my application? If you need help applying for Alabama LIHEAP or have questions about the program, help is available. You can: - Contact the ADECA Energy Division at 334-242-5292 or [send them a message online](https://adeca.alabama.gov/contact/). - Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near you.https://benefitscheckup.org/article/how-to-find-a-benefits-enrollment-center-near-you [See if there’s one in your area](https://benefitscheckup.org/article/how-to-find-a-benefits-enrollment-center-near-you). - NCOA also has a HelpLine you can call to get free support. To get started today, call [1-800-794-6559](tel:1-800-794-6559). - To check on the status of your application, contact your local LIHEAP office. [Find the one nearest you](https://adeca.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/LIHEAPRegionsMap.pdf). ## What if I cannot get help from Alabama LIHEAP? **1. Talk to your utility company ** Many utility companies in Alabama have assistance programs for customers who need help paying their bills. Some include: - **Alabama Power Project Share**: Helps older adults and people with disabilities pay their energy bills. You can apply through [Alabama Power](https://www.alabamapower.com/residential/billing-and-payment-options/payment-assistance-programs/energy-assistant.html) or your [local Salvation Army office](https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/birmingham-al/project-share/). - **Spire DollarHelp**: Helps with natural gas bills. You can apply through your [local community action agency](https://caaalabama.org/agency-locator-2/) or by calling 2-1-1. **2. Look for other assistance programs in Alabama ** There are other local or state programs that may help you lower your heating and energy bills. The [Weatherization Assistance Program](https://adeca.alabama.gov/weatherization/) can help lower your energy costs by making home repairs and installing appliances like fans or air conditioners to keep your home safe and comfortable. To learn more or apply, contact The [Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs](https://adeca.alabama.gov/energy/) (ADECA). To explore other assistance programs in Alabama, visit [United Way](https://www.uwca.org/) or call them by dialing 2-1-1. **3. Contact a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC) ** These local centers help older adults and people with disabilities find programs to afford food, health care, and energy bills. You can [contact a BEC in your area](https://benefitscheckup.org/article/how-to-find-a-benefits-enrollment-center-near-you) for guidance and support.