How to apply for LIHEAP energy assistance (Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama) — DeKalb

Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama, Inc. (CAANEAL)

Who it's for

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps pay home energy bills. In DeKalb County, LIHEAP applications are taken by the Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama. Household income for the previous month must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. Make an appointment on the agency's website or call 256-638-4430. The DeKalb County office is at 1481 McCurdy Ave S, Rainsville. Help depends on available funds.

The Community Action Agency decides eligibility and the benefit amount, and help depends on available funds. Statewide income screening lives on al.state.liheap.

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

Find my benefits

What you'll need

  • Original Social Security cards for everyone in the household (copies not accepted)
  • Current Alabama picture ID for the head of household (and spouse, if any)
  • Unpaid current original power or gas bill in the head of household's or spouse's name
  • Proof of gross income for the previous month for everyone in the household (no bank statements)
  • Lease and housing choice voucher if you live in public housing, Section 8, or other income-based housing

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 1-256-638-4430

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about LIHEAP energy assistance (Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama) — DeKalb. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need original Social Security cards for everyone in the household (copies not accepted), current Alabama picture ID for the head of household (and spouse, if any), unpaid current original power or gas bill in the head of household's or spouse's name — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

annual

Official source →Last verified · September 27, 2026

Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.

Find my benefits

Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.