Help with Heating Bills: All Applications Accepted Beginning Jan. 1

Cold millennial wrapped in blankets

The weather hasn’t been too frightful, but chilly temperatures and holiday crowds have likely bumped up the thermostat in many homes. And for those residents, the bill will soon land in the mailbox. 

Mecklenburg County residents who have trouble paying their winter heating bills can get help through the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). It is one of the County’s programs to help low-income households with their immediate energy needs, so they do not need to choose between heating their homes and other basic needs. 

LIEAP will begin taking applications from all residents beginning Jan. 1. Seniors and disabled individuals have had the opportunity to apply throughout December. The deadline for all residents to apply is March 31, 2024. 

APPLY: Visit MeckNC.gov/ENERGY or call 704-336-3000 to begin the application process. 

An applicant does not need to be behind on energy bills to receive a one-time LIEAP payment in the amount of $300, $400 or $500 based on their primary heating source. Applicants must meet income guidelines, be responsible for the bill, provide their account number, and show proof of income. 

Households must meet the following criteria:

  • At least one eligible U.S. citizen or legal resident 

  • Be responsible for the heating cost 

  • Income at or below 150% (60 years of age or older) or 130% (under 60) of the Federal Poverty Limit

In addition to the application, an interview is required, and applicants must provide:

  • Identification, such as a driver license, State ID card, or passport 

  • Utility bill 

  • Social Security number 

  • Proof of income 

If approved, a one-time payment will be made directly to the applicant's utility company. Payments will not be made to the applicant.  

Two programs can help Mecklenburg County residents pay their heating or cooling bills—the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP). To learn more, visit MeckNC.gov/ENERGY.