The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a federally funded program that provides for a one-time vendor payment to help eligible households pay their heating bills.

Energy assistance is important to all who receive it, but more so if someone in your home may be at risk for a life threatening illness or death if their home is too cold in the winter. 

Application dates:

• December 1, 2016 – December 31, 2016 or until funds are exhausted: Households with individuals age 60 and above or a disabled adult receiving service through the Division of Aging and Adult Services will be eligible to apply.

• January 1, 2017 – March 31, 2017 or until funds are exhausted: All other households

A household that applies:

• Must meet income test

• Must be responsible for the heating bill (bring/send statement or provide a number to reach account holder to verify that household must pay bill if utility not in applicant’s name)

• Cannot have more than $2,250 in resources (total of all household members resources, i.e. bank and savings accounts)

• At least one household member must be a US citizen or eligible alien.

• Priority given to persons ages 60 and above and disabled persons receiving DAAS services in the month of December.

If determined eligible, the payments are made directly to the service provider.

Applications are taken Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Polk County Department of Social Services, 231 Wolverine Trail, Mill Spring, NC  28756.

You do not need to come into DSS to apply. You may call 828-894-6633 or 828-894-6627 and request an application to be mailed to your home. 

For additional information about the Low Income Energy Assistance Program, contact Polk County Department of Social Services at 828-894-2100.

– article submitted by Lou Parton