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Summer cooling help: How to apply for energy assistance

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As temperatures rise, so do cooling costs. For many households, that can mean tough tradeoffs.

The good news: the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program can help cover those costs. But funding is limited and often runs out quickly, so applying early matters.

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What is summer cooling assistance?#what-is-summer-cooling-assistance

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded benefit that helps households pay for heating and cooling costs.

While many people associate LIHEAP with winter heating, it also covers:

  • Summer cooling assistance
  • Emergency energy help, like preventing shutoffs
  • Help with AC repairs or replacements (in some states)

States receive federal funding and run their own programs, which means benefits, applications, and enrollment periods will vary by location and program.

Not all states offer summer cooling assistance. LIHEAP can help with cooling costs, but states decide how to use their funding. Some offer a separate summer cooling program, while others focus on winter heating or only provide help in emergencies. Availability varies, so check your state’s program and apply early if cooling help is offered.

If your state offers summer cooling, applications will likely open in the summer months and remain open only until funds are exhausted. This means that if you wait too long, you could miss out on assistance, even if you qualify for the program.

Who qualifies for energy assistance?#who-qualifies-for-energy-assistance

Eligibility is primarily based on income and household size, but a few key rules apply in most states.

Qualifications include:

  • Income. States set income limits between 110% and 150% of the federal poverty guidelines. But, if 60% of the state’s median income is higher, that number is the threshold.
  • Household. Many state programs prioritize households with children, residents over 60, and people living with a disability. These households’ applications may be processed faster.
  • Enrollment in other programs. In some states, you may automatically qualify if you already receive SSI, SNAP, TANF, or certain veterans’ benefits.

Additionally, the person applying for energy assistance must be the one responsible for paying home energy bills. You must also prove residence in the state where you apply.

You don’t need to be falling behind already to apply. Many households qualify for assistance without an overdue bill.

How to apply#how-to-apply

The process is fairly similar across states, even though the exact steps vary.

  1. Find your state’s LIHEAP office. Use the federal search tool to locate your state program or search for “[your state] LIHEAP application” online.
  2. Gather documents. Most applications will ask for:
    • Proof of income, such as a pay stub or benefit letters
    • Utility bill
    • Photo ID
    • Household information

Incomplete applications are among the biggest causes of delays, so double-check before submitting.

  1. Submit an application. Depending on your state, you can usually apply by phone, mail, online, or in person through a local agency.
  2. Apply as early as possible. Many states open applications on a first-come, first-served basis and close once the funding is gone. Start checking early and often for application openings.
  3. Watch for follow-ups. After you apply, a case worker may contact you and ask for additional documentation. Keep an eye on email and phone calls to ensure you don’t miss information.

Processing can take several weeks, so don’t wait until you’re in a crisis.

How much could you get?#how-much-could-you-get

LIHEAP benefit amounts vary widely by state and household. The exact amount you get depends on your income, household, energy costs in your area, and available state funding. In general, the benefits are designed to reduce your energy costs, not cover them completely.

If you qualify for LIHEAP, you get one benefit payment per season, in most cases. In many states, the payment is sent directly to your utility company as a credit on your bills. If your rent includes utilities, payment may be issued to you directly. If your home uses deliverable fuel such as oil or propane, you may get a voucher or the program may pay the fuel vendor directly.

Some states provide air conditioning units or fans for free to help cool your home.

You may qualify for additional benefits, including:

  • Emergency assistance if your household is facing a shutoff. This can be awarded in addition to your regular heating or cooling payment.
  • Subsidized cooling system repairs or replacements

Summer cooling in 2026#summer-cooling-in-2026

These states offer specific summer cooling programs with official windows.

  • Alabama: Applications open 05/01/2026, close 09/30/2026
  • Hawaii: Applications open 6/1/2026, close 6/30/2026
  • Nebraska: Applications open 06/01/2026, close 08/31/2026
  • Virginia: Applications open 06/15/2026, close 08/15/2026
  • Oklahoma: Applications open 07/14/2026, close 9/30/2026

Some states offer cooling assistance on a rolling basis, with applications already open, including:

If you think you might qualify, apply early and follow up if needed. Even a one-time benefit can make a big difference during the hottest months of the year.

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