Low-income families may apply for assistance with home heating costs through the Department of Human Resources’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. The State of Georgia has received federal funds in the amount of $17.9 million to assist low-income, elderly and disabled Georgians with their heating bills. In addition to these federal funds, the Georgia Public Service Commission has allocated $6 million for natural gas assistance. Local community action agencies administer all available funds for the LIHEAP program.

All eligible families may apply beginning Dec. 1. The homebound and the elderly (65+) have been able to apply for LIHEAP assistance since Nov. 1. Payments will be made directly to the home energy supplier for natural gas, electricity, propane, wood, coal or kerosene. Qualifying applicants will receive payments of either $174 or $220. The funds allocated by the PSC, however, can only be used for natural gas.

To qualify for the LIHEAP program applicants must have a yearly household income less than or equal to 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, these poverty guidelines are published each year by the US Department of Health and Human Services. For a one-person household, that would be $14,355; for two people $19,245; for three people $24,135; for four people $29,025; for five people $33,915; for six people $38,805; for seven people $43,695; for eight people $48,585 and for each additional person add $4,890 in household income.

To apply, applicants must bring a copy of their most recent fueling bill or a statement of service from their heating provider to their local community action agency. Applicants must also provide proof of household income-for the last 30 days, such as a pay stub or letter from an employer. Applicants must also have a valid Social Security Number for all household members.

The LIHEAP program is operated on a first come, first served basis. Applicants are urged to call 404-656-2323 or 800-869-1150 to locate the nearest community action agency in their area or visit www.gcaaonline.org.

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