North Carolina Prepares Low Income Energy Assistance Applications

As of December 1, 2025, North Carolina has received federal funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), and the state Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is preparing to open applications for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). While the application period normally begins on December 1 each year, this year’s start has been slightly delayed due to the timing of federal funding. NCDHHS says it will provide more information as soon as applications are available.

Households that qualify for automatic renewal are not affected by the delay. Energy providers for those households received payments as expected on December 1, 2025. Eligible households were notified in November and do not need to reapply.

Program Overview

LIEAP is a federally funded program that provides a one-time vendor payment to help eligible households cover heating costs. Households that include a person aged 60 or older, or someone receiving services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services, can apply for assistance from December 1 through December 31. All other households may apply from January 1 through March 31, or until funds are exhausted.

To qualify, households must meet certain requirements, including having at least one U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen, meeting income guidelines, and being responsible for heating costs.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must provide verification of:

• Identity and contact information

• Address, such as a lease or rental agreement

• Citizenship or alien status

• Social Security numbers

• Earned income from wages or self-employment

• Unearned income, such as public benefits or private retirement

• Assets or resources, including bank and tax documents

• Heating expenses, with copies of bills

  
  

Income eligibility is based on 130% of the federal poverty level.

How to Apply

Households including someone aged 60 or older or an individual receiving disability services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services may apply from December 1 to December 31. Other households may apply beginning January 1 through March 31, or until funds run out.

For more information or to apply, residents should contact their local Department of Social Services. Applications can also be submitted online through NCDHHS ePASS.

The LIEAP program provides critical support to low-income households during the winter months, helping families manage heating costs and maintain safe, warm homes.