HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania households struggling with heating costs can now apply for up to $1,000 in financial assistance through the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which opened Nov. 2 for the 2026-27 heating season and will accept applications through April 23, 2027.
The program, known as LIHEAP, provides cash grants to eligible households to help cover heating expenses, along with crisis assistance for residents facing an immediate loss of heat.
The Energy Association of Pennsylvania, which represents 18 utility providers across the commonwealth, is encouraging customers experiencing financial difficulties to apply before unpaid heating bills develop into emergencies.
Cash grants range from $200 to $1,000, with award amounts determined by household size, income and heating fuel type.
Payments are made directly to utility companies or fuel suppliers and credited to customers’ accounts. Recipients are not required to repay the assistance.
The program provides an additional financial resource for households managing heating expenses as colder weather increases demand for residential energy.
“As temperatures begin to fall, we want Pennsylvania families to know that help is available to keep their homes warm and safe this winter,” Energy Association President and CEO Andy Tubbs stated.
The association is also directing customers to assistance programs administered by individual utility providers, including payment arrangements and energy conservation resources.
Those programs can provide additional options for households experiencing difficulty maintaining utility service or managing outstanding balances.
“We encourage anyone who may be struggling with their energy bills to apply for LIHEAP and contact their utility provider to learn about other assistance programs,” Tubbs stated. “The sooner customers seek help, the more options may be available to them.”
LIHEAP crisis grants are available to qualifying households facing an immediate heating emergency, providing assistance separate from the program’s regular cash grants.
Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services administers LIHEAP and provides information about income eligibility, application requirements and available benefits.
Residents can review program details and apply for assistance through the department’s website at https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs/resources/liheap or call 1-866-857-7095.
Customers seeking additional help through their utility providers can find contact information, assistance programs and energy-saving resources at weatherizemyhome.org.
“Nobody should wait until they’re facing a heating emergency to ask for assistance,” Tubbs stated.
The application period remains open through April 23, 2027, giving eligible Pennsylvania households an opportunity to seek heating assistance throughout the winter season.
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