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LIHEAP

Facing challenging times? Help is available.

What is LIHEAP? Two programs in one.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that assists income eligible households with paying their utility bills. Payments are generally made directly to the utility company or fuel provider.

If you qualify for LIHEAP, you will get help through Energy Assistance and/or the Energy Crisis Intervention Program, while funds last.

Energy Assistance

Energy Assistance provides a one-time payment to help pay your choice of heating or cooling bill; the program runs October 1 through May 31. The amount of assistance you receive is based on the number of people in your household, your household income, and the fuel type. Seniors and disabled individuals may apply October 1 for benefits to begin November 1. Everyone else may apply November 1 for benefits to begin December 1.

More help through ECIP

If you are in financial crisis, the Energy Crisis Intervention Program can provide additional assistance of up to $600 for summer energy costs, and up to $800 for winter energy costs. A disconnection notice is required for ECIP.

Announcements

Updates to LIHEAP programs as of October 1, 2023:

  • Seniors and disabled individuals may apply October 1, for benefits to begin November 1
  • Everyone else may apply November 1, for benefits to begin December 1
  • You may use your Energy Assistance benefit toward your heating or cooling cost
  • A disconnect notice is now required for ECIP
  • Contact your local agency for questions about these changes
View the income chart to see if you qualify

Qualifications to Apply

  • Be a Missouri resident
  • Be a U.S. citizen or be legally admitted for permanent residence
  • Live in the household, be responsible for paying the utility bill, must be over 18 and included on the application
  • Have $3000 or less in bank accounts, investments or retirement accounts
  • Meet specific income guidelines – see income chart below
  • For more information about requirements, contact the Contracted Agency in your area

Helpful Tips for Completing the Application

  • Answer all questions completely; sign and date the application
  • Include gross income records for the month prior to the application month for all household members over 18 not receiving food stamps or if everyone in the household receives food stamps; you do not need to send in gross income records for prior month.
  • Include a copy of social security cards for all household members not receiving public assistance
  • Include the account number and a copy of your most recent bill
  • Save your application to your computer if it will be electronically submitted

How Can I Apply

Get Details

Visit the main LIHEAP webpage where you can learn more about the program and apply online.

Learn More

Download

Download, print and complete the application. Then, mail, fax or drop off in person at your local Contracted Agency.

Apply Now (English - PDF)
Apply Now (Spanish)

Mail, Fax or Drop Off

Call 855-FSD-INFO (855-373-4636) to request an application to be mailed to you. Then, mail, fax or drop off in person at your local Contracted Agency. 

Program Details

State Median Income: 60% (View Income Chart)

Fuel Type: Primary heat source (gas, electric, propane, oil)

Does my account have to be in threat of disconnection or shut off to get assistance? No

Assistance Amount: A one-time heating payment based on fuel type, household size and income.

State Median Income: 60% (View Income Chart)

Fuel Type: Primary or secondary heat source.

Dates: November through May

Does my account have to be in threat of disconnection or shut off to get assistance? No.

Assistance Amount: The amount to continue or restore services for 30 days up to $1,600.

State Median Income: 60% (View Income Chart)

Fuel Type: Electric account.

Dates: June through September

Does my account have to be in threat of disconnection or shut off to get assistance? No.

Assistance Amount: The amount to continue or restore services for 30 days up to $1,200.

FAQs

See our energy assistance page for other energy assistance options or contact us regarding a payment arrangement. 

You will receive an eligibility letter from the state, but you can also sign up for Alerts through Ameren, to find out when a pledge is added to your account.
Yes you will need to apply for assistance for the Winter Heating program. It’s easy to apply; you may complete an application online. If you are currently in financial crisis, contact your local LIHEAP agency to discuss your options.  

Still Have Questions?

Visit the official LIHEAP web page 

Call 1-855-FSD-INFO (1-855-373-4636)

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