How to apply for LIHEAP — Energy Assistance & Energy Crisis Intervention (Missouri)

Who it's for

Missouri's LIHEAP helps income-eligible households with heating and cooling: Energy Assistance pays a one-time benefit toward one fuel type (October-May), Winter Crisis (November-May) pays up to $800 to resolve emergencies, and Summer Crisis (June-September) up to $300. Monthly income must be at or below 60% of the state median — $2,942 for one person or $3,847 for two — with $3,000 or less in bank accounts, retirement accounts, or investments. Apply online or through the community action agency serving your county.

What you'll need

• Proof of household income
• Utility bill (disconnect notice for crisis help)
• Social Security numbers for household members
• Photo identification

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about LIHEAP — Energy Assistance & Energy Crisis Intervention (Missouri). 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 household income, utility bill (disconnect notice for crisis help), social Security numbers for household members — 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.

Step by step

1. Check that your household may qualify. Missouri LIHEAP helps with heating and cooling costs. Your monthly income must be at or below 60% of the state median, and your bank accounts, retirement accounts, or investments must be $3,000 or less.
2. Gather your documents. Have proof of household income, your utility bill, Social Security numbers for household members, and a photo ID ready. If you need crisis help, also have your disconnect notice.
3. Apply online or call 1-855-373-4636 to apply through the community action agency that serves your county.
4. Complete the application for the LIHEAP part that fits your need. Energy Assistance helps with one fuel type during the heating season. Winter Crisis and Summer Crisis help with urgent shutoff or service emergencies during their seasonal windows.
5. Answer any follow-up questions from the community action agency and submit any extra information they ask for.
6. Watch for a decision from the community action agency. If you have an emergency, say that you need crisis help when you apply.

What to expect: After you apply, the community action agency reviews your case and decides if you qualify and how much help you can get. LIHEAP programs run during seasonal application windows and depend on available funding, so approval and benefit amounts can vary. Applications usually take about 30 business days unless it is a crisis. You need to apply again each year during the open season if you still need help.

Renewals

annual (seasonal application windows)