Last Call for Heating Help: Application Deadline Is March 31

DCR-energy-CIP

Warmer weather doesn’t mean the end of energy bills. Help is available through Mecklenburg County’s Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). The deadline for eligible households to apply is March 31.    

LIEAP 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 basic needs. 

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. 

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

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. Any household that received LIEAP last season likely received a supplemental payment of $287.64 on their heating account. This is not a payment for this season, so those households are encouraged to apply for the additional assistance. 

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). Both are administered by the Department of Community Resources, Economic Services Division. To learn more, visit MeckNC.gov/ENERGY.