Benefits · Utility Assistance
How to apply for Charlotte County Human Services LIHEAP + EHEAP + Emergency Assistance
Charlotte County Human Services Department
Who it's for
Charlotte County's Human Services Department administers the county's safety-net assistance programs from its Port Charlotte offices. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible low-income households with heating and cooling bills — both an annual energy benefit and crisis assistance are available, paid directly to utility providers. The Emergency Home Energy Assistance for the Elderly Program (EHEAP) is the senior-specific variant for households with at least one member age 60 or older experiencing an energy crisis. Assistance with rent, mortgage, utilities, or minor home repairs is also available through county grants and other funding programs based on household income with funding prioritized by need. Applications are accepted through June 30, 2026 (or until funds are expended). The county also operates the Family Services Center as a one-stop intake hub and partners with Charlotte 2-1-1 (the United Way information and referral line) for routing to community resources. Apply by calling Human Services at 941-833-6500 or through the Florida LIHEAP/EHEAP online application.
Charlotte County LIHEAP is available once per 12-month period — you can't reapply within the year. EHEAP is senior-specific and crisis-triggered (must have an active shut-off notice or final bill). The income gate modeled here (~150% FPL / $23,400 for 1-person household 2026) is the typical LIHEAP threshold; specific sub-programs may use stricter income gates. Applications are accepted through June 30, 2026 — check current funding availability before applying. Charlotte 2-1-1 (United Way information and referral) is a useful starting point for navigating the safety-net landscape if Human Services intake is closed. Apply by calling 941-833-6500 or via the Florida LIHEAP/EHEAP online portal.
What you'll need
- Government-issued photo ID for the applicant
- Proof of Charlotte County residency
- Proof of household income for the prior 30 days (pay stubs, Social Security award letter, SSA-1099)
- Current utility bill or shut-off notice (LIHEAP / EHEAP)
- Lease, mortgage statement, or eviction notice (for rental/mortgage assistance)
- Social Security cards for household members
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 941-833-6500
Renewals
LIHEAP available once per 12-month period; EHEAP per crisis subject to funding
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.