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Reviewed October 1, 2026

LIHEAP (Home Energy Assistance)

Pennsylvania LIHEAP helps eligible households with heating costs and qualifying heat emergencies. Intake follows seasonal announcements.

Who can apply

Renters and homeowners can qualify under household income rules. You do not need to receive another assistance benefit or already owe an unpaid heating bill.

What help is available

A heating grant is credited to the utility or fuel supplier. Crisis assistance has separate emergency conditions.

Documents to prepare

  • Household and income information.
  • Heating supplier and account details.
  • Any shutoff, fuel shortage or equipment-emergency evidence.

How to get started

  1. Check the season

    The state currently schedules 2026–27 intake to open November 2, 2026; confirm the announcement before applying.

  2. Use the current instructions

    Follow the application route on the LIHEAP page or contact your county assistance office.

  3. Explain a crisis

    Ask separately about an urgent heating emergency and required evidence.

After applying

Track a submitted case at trackmybenefits.pa.gov. Pending assistance is not confirmation that a shutoff is stopped.

Website screenshots

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

The Pennsylvania DHS LIHEAP program page with season dates and income limits.
August 2026 reference screenshot.
The pa.gov LIHEAP application service page.
August 2026 reference screenshot.

Common questions

Is current intake open?

As checked October 1, the next season is scheduled for November 2.

Must I already owe a bill?

No. An unpaid heating bill is not required for the regular grant.

Is payment sent to me?

The regular grant goes to the energy supplier.

Can a renter apply?

Yes, subject to program rules.

Sources and review

Content checked October 1, 2026 using State LIHEAP application. Current eligibility and the final decision remain with the program.

Historical screenshots: source reference.