The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay the winter heating bills of low-income and elderly people. This assistance is based on household income, household size, type of fuel, and type of housing. If you are interested in learning if you qualify, please write to:

LIHEAP - Iowa Department of Human Rights
Capitol Complex
Des Moines, IA 50319

Income Maximums

For households with more than eight members, $7,560 for each additional member.

When to Apply

• Elderly (60 & over) and/or disabled: October 1, 2018, to April 30, 2019
• All other households: November 1, 2018, to April 30, 2019

What to Take

• Proof of Income for all household members age 19 and over (most recent three months' check stubs, award letter from Social Security, or 2017 tax return)
• Social Security numbers for all household members
• Recent heat bill
• Recent electric bill

Wage Earners

Please bring copies of your check stubs for the three-month period preceding the date of application, or a copy of your federal income tax return.

Fixed Income

This income may include: Social Security Benefits, Supplemental Security Income, Family Investment Program, Veteran's Assistance, Unemployment Insurance, and pensions. Please bring copies of your most recent three months' check stubs.

Self-Employed/Farmers

Please bring a copy of your most recent federal income tax return.

FIP Recipients

Please bring your current DHS Notice of Decision or contact your local office for acceptable document information.

If you receive alimony or child support, it will also need to be verified.

ECI REC's tariff contains detailed information about LIHEAP.