LIHEAP Eligibility Calculator
Check your LIHEAP eligibility for 2026 based on income and household size, and see typical benefit amounts.
LIHEAP helps with heating and cooling bills if your household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty guideline. From October 2026 through September 2027, that limit is $23,940 a year for one person and $49,500 for a family of four. Most households receive $400 to $1,500 a year, paid straight to the utility company.
The federal government sets the highest income a state may allow, but each state runs its own LIHEAP program and decides how much to pay. Enter your household size and income to see whether you're under the federal limit.
Check Your LIHEAP Eligibility
Your state may use a lower limit, or it may use 60% of state median income, which can be higher than the 150% poverty figure. Treat this result as a first check, not a decision.
Typical national benefit range: $400–$1,500/year
This is a national range, not an estimate for your household. Your state sets the amount using your income, household size, heating fuel and climate. The payment goes to your utility or fuel dealer, not to you.
Many states also offer cooling assistance (summer), crisis assistance for an imminent shutoff, and weatherization referrals beyond the standard heating benefit. See this site's Weatherization Assistance Program tool.
Most states pay out LIHEAP money first-come, first-served until the year's funding runs out. Apply as soon as your state opens applications, which is usually in the fall.
Eligibility is based on income. Federal law sets the ceiling at 150% of the poverty guideline, or 60% of state median income if that's higher. States can set their own limit lower, but not below 110% of the poverty guideline, so the cutoff depends on where you live. Federal rules don't include an asset test, though a few states add one. If you already get SNAP, SSI or TANF, most states count you as income-eligible without checking your income again.
Here's an example. A widow living alone on $1,800 a month in Social Security has $21,600 a year in income. That's under the $23,940 limit for one person, so she clears the federal test. Whether she qualifies in practice, and how much she gets, depends on her state.
Unlike most tools on this site, this one can't calculate an exact benefit. Each state builds its own payment table from income, household size, fuel type and local climate. Nationally, most awards fall between $400 and $1,500 a year, and the money goes to the utility company or fuel dealer. When you apply, ask about the other parts of the program too. Many states also offer summer cooling help, crisis payments if your service is about to be shut off, and referrals for free weatherization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for LIHEAP in 2026?
The federal maximum is 150% of the poverty guideline or 60% of state median income, whichever is higher. For the program year running October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027, 150% of the 2026 HHS guideline works out to $23,940 for one person and $49,500 for a family of four.
How much money does LIHEAP provide?
Usually $400 to $1,500 a year. Your state decides the exact amount based on your income, household size and heating fuel.
Does LIHEAP pay me directly?
No. The state sends the payment to your utility company or fuel dealer, and it shows up as a credit on your account.
Am I automatically eligible for LIHEAP if I receive SNAP?
In most states, yes. If you get SNAP, SSI or TANF, you usually meet the income test without a separate review. A few states still check your income.
Is there an asset test for LIHEAP?
Not under federal rules. Most states look only at income, but a few also count savings or other assets. Your state LIHEAP office can tell you which rule applies.
When should I apply for LIHEAP?
As soon as your state opens applications. The money is limited, and in most states it's handed out in the order applications come in.
This tool compares your income to the federal maximum and shows the typical national benefit range. It can't calculate your actual award, because your state sets that. To apply or get an exact amount, contact your state LIHEAP office or call 2-1-1.