Help with Heating Bills: Applications for Assistance Open Dec. 1

A happy family sitting in the living room of a house

Temperatures outside are dropping and heating bills are rising. But support is available to help households with their energy bills.

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

Mecklenburg County will begin taking LIEAP applications on Dec. 1 for senior citizens aged 60 and older or disabled individuals who get help through the N.C. Division of Aging and Adult Services. All other households can apply beginning Jan. 1, 2025. The deadline for all applications is March 31, 2025.

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

Applicants must provide:

  • Identification, such as a driver’s license, State ID card, or passport
  • Utility bill
  • Social Security number
  • Proof of income

There are several easy ways for customers to apply.

  • Apply online at epass.nc.gov
  • Mail the completed application to 301 Billingsley Road, Charlotte, NC 28211
  • Email the completed application to [email protected]
  • Drop off a completed application or walk-in to apply in person at:
  • Call 704-336-3000 to complete a telephone application.

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

“The LIEAP program provides critical support to families and individuals who may struggle to afford the cost of heating their homes,” said Marquette Kilpatrick, manager of the Mecklenburg County energy program. “I encourage households to apply for the program to ensure that no one is left in the cold due to financial challenges.”

To learn more about Mecklenburg County’s energy assistance programs, visit MeckNC.gov/Energy.