How to apply for Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) — Enrichment Services Program — Talbot County in Georgia

Who it's for

Enrichment Services Program (ESP), the Community Action Agency for the Columbus area, delivers the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for Talbot County. LIHEAP makes a payment toward a household's primary heating or cooling bill for income-eligible households, with crisis help when a shutoff is imminent. Households qualify with income at or below 60% of the state median income, and residents who are 65 or older or medically homebound are a priority and may apply early each season. Book an Energy Assistance appointment online with ESP (choose Talbot County) or call ESP at 706-649-1600; help is first-come, first-served until funds run out.

What you'll need

• Proof of income for the past 30 days for every household member 18 or older
• State-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal immigrant status for every household member 18 or older
• Proof of Social Security numbers for everyone in the household
• Last or current month's electric, gas/propane, and water bills
• This year's award letter if you receive SSI, Social Security, a pension, VA benefits, or workers' compensation

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) — Enrichment Services Program — Talbot County. 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 proof of income for the past 30 days for every household member 18 or older, state-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal immigrant status for every household member 18 or older, proof of Social Security numbers for everyone in the household — 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 (each heating and cooling season)

Related programs

Other help that people in the same situation often look at.

• Energy AssistanceGeorgia Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Family & Children Services — delivered through local Community Action Agencies
• Tax ReliefGeorgia Senior Homestead Exemption (Age 65+ — $4,000)Georgia Department of Revenue — administered by your county tax commissioner / board of tax assessors
• Tax ReliefFederal Credit for the Elderly or the Disabled (IRS Schedule R)Internal Revenue Service
• Utility AssistanceFederal LifelineFederal Communications Commission / Universal Service Administrative Company

See all programs in Talbot County →