What is Fuel Assistance

• Fuel assistance is provided by the government for low-income families. The main program is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, which is run by the United States Department of Health and Human Services. The funds come from the federal government and are divided among the states based on estimated need. In each state, the funds provided to individuals is determined by their needs once they qualify for the program.
  
  

Qualifications

• Qualifying for programs administered by LIHEAP depends on family income and the number of family members. A family typically will qualify if household income is not more than 150 percent of the poverty level or does not exceed 60 percent of the median level of income for the state in which the family lives. Each state decides how to divide the monies allotted by the federal government, so qualification can differ slightly. You usually can apply by filling out an application at a local state or community office. The amount you qualify for will be determined by an LIHEAP official.
  
  

Other Programs

• If you and your family qualify for the LIHEAP program, odds are you will qualify for other programs that will also help you reduce your energy costs. For instance, you might also qualify for the Weatherization Assistance Program, which is funded by the Department of Energy. This program will assist low-income families by making improvements to their homes to make them more energy efficient. The HEARTWAP program provides free service and repair to heating systems for families or individuals without heat who cannot afford to make the repairs themselves. Check with your local agencies for other assistance that might be offered.