LIHEAP Eligibility Calculator
Check your LIHEAP eligibility for 2026 based on income and household size, and see typical benefit amounts.
LIHEAP helps pay heating and cooling bills for households at or below 150% of the federal poverty guideline in 2026, $23,475/year for one person or $48,225/year for a family of four. Typical benefits range from $400 to $1,500 per year, paid directly to your utility company.
LIHEAP is run by every state individually, so while the federal government sets a maximum income limit, your actual benefit amount depends on your specific state's formula. Enter your household size and income below to check your federal eligibility.
Check Your LIHEAP Eligibility
Some states set a lower income limit, or use the 60% state median income (SMI) standard instead, which could be higher or lower than this federal 150% FPG figure. This result is a starting point, not a guarantee.
Typical national benefit range: $400–$1,500/year
This is a general national range, NOT a personalized estimate for your household — your actual amount depends entirely on your state's formula, income tier, household size, heating fuel type, and climate zone. The benefit is paid directly to your utility or fuel vendor, 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.
LIHEAP funding is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served or seasonal basis in most states — applying early in the program year matters.
LIHEAP eligibility is based entirely on income, with no asset test. The federal ceiling is 150% of the poverty guideline, or 60% of your state's median income if that figure is higher, though states can choose to set their limit anywhere down to 110% of the poverty guideline. That means the exact income cutoff genuinely varies by where you live. If you already receive SNAP, SSI, or TANF, most states automatically consider you income-eligible without a separate review. The benefit itself works differently from most programs on this site: it's not a fixed formula you can calculate precisely, since each state designs its own tiered payment schedule based on income, household size, heating fuel type, and local climate. Nationally, benefits typically fall between $400 and $1,500 a year, and the money goes directly to your utility company or fuel vendor rather than to you. Many states also offer cooling assistance for summer, emergency crisis help if you're facing a shutoff, and weatherization referrals, so it's worth asking about the full range of help when you apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for LIHEAP in 2026?
The federal maximum is 150% of the Federal Poverty Guideline, or 60% of your state's median income, whichever is higher. For 2026, 150% FPG is $23,475/year for one person or $48,225/year for a family of four.
How much money does LIHEAP provide?
It varies significantly by state, typically $400 to $1,500 per year. The exact amount depends on your income, household size, heating fuel type, and your state's specific formula.
Does LIHEAP pay me directly?
No. The benefit is paid directly to your utility company or fuel vendor on your behalf.
Am I automatically eligible for LIHEAP if I receive SNAP?
In most states, yes. Receiving SNAP, SSI, or TANF typically qualifies you automatically without a separate income review, though this varies by state.
Is there an asset test for LIHEAP?
No. LIHEAP eligibility is based on income only, not savings or other assets.
When should I apply for LIHEAP?
As early as possible in your state's program year. Funding is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served or seasonal basis in most states.
This calculator checks your eligibility against the federal maximum income limit and provides a typical national benefit range, not a personalized calculation, since actual amounts are determined entirely by your state's LIHEAP formula. For your exact benefit amount and to apply, contact your state's LIHEAP office or call 2-1-1.