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Reviewed October 1, 2026

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP / LIHEAP)

Maine HEAP helps eligible homeowners and renters with heating costs. The 2026–27 season began August 3, 2026 and runs until funds are exhausted or May 29, 2027.

Who can apply

['Eligibility depends on household income, size and other conditions. Some allowable medical expenses can reduce income considered for eligibility.', 'Renters and homeowners can apply. Tell the agency whether heating is included in rent and what fuel heats the home.']

What help is available

Assistance may cover fuel costs and related energy support. Emergency fuel help through ECIP has a separate season, scheduled November 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027.

Documents to prepare

Prepare household identities and citizenship proof, gross income records, full utility bills and heating-fuel information. Ask the local agency which time period to document and how it handles zero or self-employment income.

How to get started

  1. Open MaineHousing’s HEAP page to apply online or locate your community action agency by ZIP code.
  2. For telephone or in-person intake, contact the local agency for an appointment.
  3. Submit verification and complete an interview if requested. Explain an extremely low fuel supply to the agency.

After applying

Keep the submission confirmation and respond to missing-document requests. Ask about the approved amount and vendor payment. Do not wait for a routine application to resolve an immediate heating emergency; tell the agency the amount of fuel remaining and ask about current options.

Website screenshots

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

MaineHousing's HEAP heating assistance page.
August 2026 reference screenshot.
The MaineHousing ECOS online application portal.
August 2026 reference screenshot.

Common questions

Can I apply online?

Yes. MaineHousing links to the household online HEAP application.

Is crisis fuel help available throughout the HEAP season?

ECIP has its own published 2026–27 window, November 1 through April 30. Ask the agency about an urgent need outside that window.

Can medical expenses matter if my income is too high?

MaineHousing says some eligible medical expenses may be deducted. Ask what proof is needed.

Will the application also help identify home energy improvements?

Ask the community action agency about weatherization and related energy programs while it reviews HEAP.

Sources and review

Historical screenshots: source reference.