To assist consumers with economic need which may be created during the COVID19 pandemic, Peoples is reminding them that there is still time to apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Applications are accepted until April 10, 2020, as long as funds remain available, so consumers should not delay. For the 2019-2020 winter heating season, the minimum LIHEAP grant is $200. The grant helps income-eligible utility customers with heating bills, whether they rent or own their home.
LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). The program provides a one-time grant, applied directly to a customer’s utility bill. Grants are also available for residents without heat or in danger of being without heat. The income eligibility limit for the 2019-2020 LIHEAP is 150% of the federal poverty income guidelines. This means individuals with an annual income of up to $18,735 are eligible to apply. A family of four can earn an annual income of up to $38.625.
Customers are encouraged to apply online through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Service website (COMPASS) at www.compass.state.pa.us. To apply, the customer must provide the following information:
- Names of all people in the household
- Birth dates for all people in the household
- Social Security numbers for all members of the household
- Proof of income for all members of the household
- A copy of a recent heating bill
Peoples recognizes that the need for utility support does not end with the heating season. Year-round, customers can also take advantage of a confidential tool on Peoples’ website that can help them determine eligibility for utility assistance programs based on income and state of residence. Learn more about Peoples’ ProgramFinder here.
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About Peoples:
Peoples, an Essential Utilities company, provides natural gas service to approximately 740,000 homes and businesses in Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Kentucky. Peoples is committed to our customers, our employees, our environment, and to the regions we serve. For more information about Peoples, visit www.peoples-gas.com and follow Peoples on social media @peoplesnatgas.