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If you need assistance paying your energy bills, there are benefits available. One of those, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), can help keep your family safe and comfortable through the upcoming winter season.

What is LIHEAP?

LIHEAP may go by a different name depending on your state, but it assists income-eligible households with heating and cooling costs, bill payment assistance, energy crisis assistance and weatherization and energy-related home repairs. The program is federally funded and administered by your state. Minnesota's program is handled through the Minnesota Commerce Department and managed through local energy assistance partners.

How does it work?

LIHEAP benefits last for one year, and there are two types — regular and emergency.

With regular benefits, the program will offer financial assistance for heating and cooling bills, and your household will be required to pay a portion of that bill. Emergency benefits quickly assist households whose utilities are at risk of being shut off or have already been disconnected.

Depending on your state, the assistance may be applied in a lump sum or through several smaller payments throughout the year.

How do I know if I'm qualified?

Eligibility depends on income guidelines, which differ from state to state. Generally, annual household income before taxes must fall between 110% and 150% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines.

Your household may automatically qualify if a family member participates in another benefit program.

How do I apply?

Contact the Minnesota Commerce Department for information about application deadlines and instructions. Funds are limited and the program is first come, first serve.

You can complete the application in person, online or by mail. The documents and information you'll need to fill out the application differ depending on which benefits you're applying for.

Find your local Energy Assistance Partner

So, what's next?

The approval process time is 30 days for regular benefits and 48 hours for emergency assistance. You must continue to pay your full energy bill while you wait for approval and continue to pay a portion of it if you're approved. LIHEAP benefits will start within 15 days of approval.