NCDHHS receives low-income home energy assistance program
RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has received federal funding for 2026 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP).
North Carolinians who are eligible for LIEAP assistance and did not receive an auto-renewal or notice of automated payment can apply for benefits starting December 10th.
The program provides low-income households with a one-time payment sent directly to their heating vendor to offset the high cost of warming their homes.
LIEAP payments were automatically distributed at the end of November to heating vendors for households with a member of their household who met the following three criteria:
- Is 60 or older or a person with a disability receiving services through the NCDHSS Division of Aging
- Currently receives Food and Nutrition Services or SNAP
- Received a LIEAP payment during the 2024-2025 season
Any household with a person 60 or older or with a disability receiving services through the NCDHSS Division of Aging who did not receive a notice can apply online.
Applicants can also apply by phone, in person, or print a paper application to mail or drop off at their county department of social services.
To be eligible for the LIEAP program, a household must:
- Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility requirements
- Have income equal to or less than 130% of the federal poverty limit
- Be responsible for their heating cost
Beginning on January 2nd, 2026 all other eligible households can begin applying and applications will be accepted until March 31st or until funds are exhausted.
Last year, LIEAP provided $45 million to help more than 131,000 households pay their bills.
