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Reviewed October 1, 2026

Crisis Intervention Program (North Carolina CIP)

North Carolina CIP assists qualifying households facing a health-related or life-threatening heating or cooling emergency.

Who can apply

Income, resources, eligible household status and an energy crisis must be assessed. A past-due bill alone does not establish the health-related emergency.

What help is available

Assistance can help resolve qualifying energy emergencies while funds remain available.

Documents to prepare

  • Utility statement and amount owed.
  • Income and household information.
  • Requested eligibility records and crisis details.

How to get started

  1. Contact county DSS

    Use CIP guidance or ePASS.

  2. Explain the danger

    Describe the household member’s risk and the heating or cooling problem.

  3. Submit proof

    Mail, email, fax or drop-off routes are listed; a face-to-face interview is not currently required.

After applying

Keep the agency informed of emergency dates. Contact the utility separately.

Website screenshots

These images show the pages captured in August 2026. Website screens and rules may have changed.

The ePASS homepage, where energy assistance can start online.
August 2026 reference screenshot.
The NCDHHS Crisis Intervention Program page.
August 2026 reference screenshot.

Common questions

Must I have a disconnect notice?

The state also accepts a final notice or past-due bill.

Is any overdue bill enough?

A qualifying energy-related health or life-threatening crisis is required.

Is an in-person interview required?

Not currently.

Is funding unlimited?

No.

Sources and review

Content checked October 1, 2026 using CIP eligibility and intake. Current eligibility and the final decision remain with the program.

Historical screenshots: source reference.