Heating Bill Help Available for Low-Income Households

Pennsylvania is receiving an additional $52.3 million in federal funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to assist those who are struggling to pay home heating bills, Department of Public Welfare Secretary Gary D. Alexander announced.

According to a release, the federally-funded program provides cash grants to eligible low-income households to help pay for home heating fuel. It also provides crisis grants to address heating emergencies such as furnace failures or unexpected fuel shortages.

“Despite seeing a warmer-than-usual winter, many people in Pennsylvania are still seeking this critical assistance,” said Alexander. “This funding allows us to keep LIHEAP open through March 31.”

The additional $52.3 million brings the state’s total to $209.5 million for the current LIHEAP season, which began last Nov. 1. Since then, the program has helped 269,777 households pay heating bills. More than 54,412 households have received crisis grants.

The minimum cash benefit recipients may receive is now $100, and the maximum crisis grant amount is $300. To apply, an applicant must provide proof of income, household size and a recent heating bill.

Apply for a LIHEAP grant online at www.compass.state.pa.us or apply in-person at county assistance offices. You may also call the statewide toll-free hotline at 1- 866-857-7095 with questions about the program.

For more information about the Department of Public Welfare, visit the department’s website at www.dpw.state.pa.us

Household sizes and maximum income limits for LIHEAP’s 2011-12 season are listed below:

1 person -- $16,335
2 people -- $22,065
3 people -- $27,795
4 people -- $33,525
5 people -- $39,255
6 people -- $44,985
7 people -- $50,715
8 people -- $56,445
9 people -- $62,175
10 people -- $67,905
(For each additional person, add $5,730)