Applications for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are now open for the elderly and disabled, and will open for all other qualified individuals on Wednesday, Nov. 1. Last year, approximately 36,000 households in Iowa received benefits from this federally-funded, energy assistance program for low-income families. The average payment per household was $440. “Winters in the Midwest are always unpredictable, and wondering if you can keep up with your energy bills doesn’t help,” says Kathryn Kunert, vice president of economic connections and integration for MidAmerican Energy. “If any customers worry about challenges paying their bills this winter, we encourage them to apply for LIHEAP or get in touch with us to learn about our payment options,” Kunert adds. LIHEAP funds are received in the form of a grant from the United States Department of Health and Human Services. Community action agencies in Iowa review applications and administer the funds. Grants are determined based on household size and income, type of primary heating fuel, type of housing and other factors. To be eligible, total household income must be at or below 175 percent of the 2017 federal poverty guidelines. For example, a single-person household can qualify with an annual gross income of $21,105 and a family of four can qualify with an annual gross income of $43,050. MidAmerican reminds customers that even if they are not eligible for LIHEAP, but have difficulty managing their energy bills, they can contact them to discuss payment and billing options. Their number is included here. LIHEAP applications are available at any community action agency and more information can be found through the link that is also provided below.
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LIHEAP Information: https://humanrights.iowa.gov/dcaa/liheap
MidAmerican Energy: 888-427-5632
