Weatherization Assistance Program Eligibility Checker
Check your 2026 eligibility for free home weatherization improvements through the federal Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP).
The Weatherization Assistance Program pays for home improvements such as insulation, air sealing and furnace repair, worth about $7,400 per home on average. It is for households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level in 2026: $31,920 a year for one person or $66,000 for a family of four. Nothing is repaid.
LIHEAP helps pay your current energy bills. WAP makes lasting improvements to your home that lower future bills, at no charge. Enter your household size and income below to check your eligibility.
Check Your WAP Eligibility
Some states use a different standard, 200% of state median income (SMI), which could raise or lower the applicable limit where you live.
This is a free service, not a cash payment
WAP is an in-kind home improvement benefit, averaging around $7,400 per home in labor and materials, not money paid to you. Your household pays nothing, and there is no loan or lien.
As a renter, you're not excluded from WAP, but landlord permission is typically required before any work can be done on the home.
Qualifying for LIHEAP often streamlines WAP eligibility, and many households pursue both. See this site's LIHEAP Eligibility Calculator.
| Weatherization (WAP) | LIHEAP | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Improves the home so that it uses less energy | Helps pay heating and cooling bills |
| Federal income limit | 200% of the poverty level | 150% of the poverty level, or 60% of state median income |
| What you receive | Work on your home, about $7,400 on average | A payment to your utility or fuel supplier |
| How often | Generally once per home | Each year you qualify |
Who qualifies. Households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. There is no asset test. If you receive SSI or TANF, and in most places SNAP or LIHEAP, local agencies generally treat you as income-eligible without a separate review. Households with someone who is 60 or older, has a disability or is a young child usually get priority.
What happens.
- You apply through your local weatherization agency, often the same community action agency that handles LIHEAP.
- An energy auditor inspects your home and lists the improvements that will save the most energy.
- A crew does the work, typically insulation, air sealing, and repair or replacement of the heating system.
The work is free and there is no loan or lien. What is done depends on what your home needs.
Renters. Renters qualify, and the landlord has to give permission before work starts.
Expect a wait. Funding is limited and many agencies have waiting lists, so apply early. Check LIHEAP at the same time with the LIHEAP eligibility calculator. If you have a shutoff notice, see the utility shutoff protection guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for the Weatherization Assistance Program in 2026?
The federal standard is 200% of the federal poverty level: $31,920 a year for one person or $66,000 for a family of four. Some states use a standard based on state median income instead.
How is WAP different from LIHEAP?
LIHEAP helps pay your energy bills. WAP makes free, lasting home improvements, such as insulation and furnace repair, that lower your future energy costs. They are separate programs, and many households qualify for both.
How much is a typical WAP benefit worth?
The improvements are worth about $7,400 per home on average. They are provided as labor and materials, not cash.
Do I have to pay back WAP assistance?
No. There is no repayment, loan or lien. Eligible households receive the improvements at no cost.
Can renters get WAP assistance?
Yes. Renters are eligible, and the landlord's permission is generally required before work is done.
Am I automatically eligible for WAP if I already receive LIHEAP?
Often, yes. Many states accept LIHEAP approval as proof of income for WAP.
This calculator compares your income with the federal standard limit. It does not guarantee assistance, because some states use a different standard based on state median income and local agencies have limited capacity. For an official decision, contact your local weatherization agency.