Oregon Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

If high energy bills are making it harder to keep up with your everyday expenses, Oregon LIHEAP may be able to help. This program helps eligible households pay heating and cooling costs, making it easier to afford essential home energy services.

LIHEAP funding is limited, so it's a good idea to apply as early as possible. The amount of assistance you receive depends on your household's needs, eligibility, and available funding.

How does Oregon LIHEAP work?

Oregon LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households pay their home energy bills. The program is managed by the Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) and administered through local Community Action Agencies (CAAs).

If you qualify, LIHEAP sends an energy assistance payment directly to your utility provider to help lower your bill. In some cases, the program may also help repair or replace a heating system that is unsafe or no longer working. The amount of assistance you receive varies based on your household and local program rules.

Note: Because LIHEAP is administered by local Community Action Agencies, program details and requirements may vary by county.

Who can get help from Oregon LIHEAP?

You may qualify for Oregon LIHEAP if you meet the program requirements. These generally include:

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You live in the Oregon and apply through the Community Action Agency that serves your area

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You are responsible for paying your home energy bill

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Your household income is at or below 60% of the Oregon State Median Income

Your local Community Action Agency can help you understand current income limits and other eligibility requirements.

How do I apply for Oregon LIHEAP?

You apply for Oregon LIHEAP through your local Community Action Agency. Before beginning your application, it is important to gather the information and documents you may need. Having these items ready can help make the process easier and avoid delays. You may be asked to provide some of the following:

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A copy of your most recent energy or utility bill

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Proof of income, such as a recent paycheck or tax return

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Records showing any benefits your household receives, such as Social Security, unemployment, disability, or pension payments

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A disconnection or shut-off notice from your utility company, if you have received one

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Proof of current address, such as a lease agreement or recent piece of mail

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Social Security numbers for all household members

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Documents showing U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status

Each Community Action Agency may accept applications differently. Depending on where you live, you may be able to apply online, by phone, by mail, or in person. Contact your local Community Action Agency to learn how to apply in your area.

How can I get help with my application?

If you have questions about Oregon LIHEAP or need help applying, help is available. You can:

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Contact your local Community Action Agency.

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Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there is one near you.

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Call NCOA’s Benefits HelpLine at 1-800-794-6559 for free information about LIHEAP or to if you need help getting started.

What if I cannot get help from Oregon LIHEAP?

1. Talk to your utility company

Many utility companies in Oregon offer programs to help customers lower their energy bills. For example, NW Natural’s Bill Discount Program can reduce eligible customers’ monthly gas bills by 15% to 85%.

2. Look for other assistance programs in Oregon

You may qualify for other programs that help lower your energy costs, including the Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP). The OEAP helps eligible households pay their electric bills and avoid service shutoffs. See if you may be eligible.

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 for guidance and support.