The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) primarily focuses on aiding households that devote a significant portion of their income to meet home energy needs. For these struggling families, the program steps in to provide the necessary financial support. Whether it’s heating assistance during harsh winters, cooling assistance in scorching summers, or year-round crisis aid, LIHEAP aims to keep homes safe and comfortable for all eligible recipients.
The scope of assistance under LIHEAP extends beyond simple utility bill payments. The program encompasses several essential services, including furnace and central air conditioner repair and replacement. This ensures that families are not left in the cold during the winter or sweltering in unbearable heat. Additionally, LIHEAP offers support for window air conditioners and even a fan program, which can be critical for those who may not have access to conventional cooling systems.
Qualifying for LIHEAP in Nebraska
Eligibility for LIHEAP is determined based on specific criteria designed to target those in genuine need. To qualify, a household must demonstrate its vulnerability to rising energy costs and the inability to cover these expenses without assistance. Moreover, meeting income guidelines corresponding to household size is a crucial factor in determining eligibility. Ensuring that the aid reaches those who need it the most is at the heart of the program’s success.
Additionally, citizenship and Nebraska residency requirements are essential prerequisites for participation in the LIHEAP Program. By prioritizing local residents, the program aligns itself with the community’s needs and fosters a sense of responsibility towards supporting neighbors in times of financial adversity.
Discover if your household qualifies for LIHEAP in Nebraska and the maximum amount to claim
The first step to determine whether your family qualifies or not, the annual household income limit (before taxes) must not be surpassed. This limit is determined based on the household’s size, as the following chart:
- 1 person: $16,913
- 2 people: $22,876
- 3 people: $28,838
- 4 people: $34,800
- 5 people: $40,763
- 6 people: $46,725
- 7 people: $52,688
- 8 people: $58,650
- Any additional member: add $5,962
To see if your household qualifies for LIHEAP or any of the DHHS assistance programs, go to ACCESSNebraska.ne.gov or call ACCESSNebraska at 1-800-383-4278 or visit a local DHHS office.
Also, take a look at the official website of the Nebraska Energy Assistance, or get in touch with Economic Assistance Policy Supervisor, Karma Stockwell, as part of the Nebraska’s Division of Children and Family Services.
As of 2023, the minimum amount you could claim is $273, while the maximum is $700. If a crisis is happening, the one-time payment could be up to $500.