The state Department of Human Services announced that applications for the 2025-26 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program will be accepted starting today.
The program was put on hold during the federal government shutdown in November. The season is now set to run from now through April 10th of next year. LIHEAP is the federally funded Department of Human Services program that helps eligible households pay heating bills by sending payments directly to their utility company of fuel provider. States receive funding for the program through a federal block grant. That money came in last week from the Trump administration. LIHEAP assistance does not need to be paid back and is available in the form of cash or crisis grants. The minimum 2025-26 cash grant is $200, and the maximum cash grant is $1,000. Individuals and households may receive one cash grant per LIHEAP season.
During the delay, Governor Josh Shapiro and the Public Utility Commission enacted a moratorium on November 1st, one month earlier than usual. That makes sure that those eligible for the program did not risk having their heat or electricity shut off.
Pennsylvanians can apply for LIHEAP by calling 1-866-550-4355 or by logging onto the DHS Compass website.
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