How to apply for LIHEAP heating assistance (Upper Des Moines Opportunity) — Dickinson in Iowa

Who it's for

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) makes a one-time payment to your heating company to help with winter heating costs, no matter what fuel you use. In Dickinson County, Upper Des Moines Opportunity (UDMO) takes applications at its outreach office at 1575 18th Street in Spirit Lake; call 712-336-1112 for an appointment. Households with a member age 60 or older, a disabled member, or a crisis can apply starting October 1; everyone else can apply November 1 through April 30. Both homeowners and renters can qualify. Approved households are also protected from gas or electric shut-off during the winter moratorium, November 1 through April 1. Applying for LIHEAP also signs you up for weatherization.

What you'll need

• Proof of identity and Social Security number for everyone in the home
• Most recent heating bill and most recent electric bill
• Proof of income for all household members (past 30 days or past year)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about LIHEAP heating assistance (Upper Des Moines Opportunity) — Dickinson. 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 identity and Social Security number for everyone in the home, most recent heating bill and most recent electric bill, proof of income for all household members (past 30 days or past year) — 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