Benefits · Energy Assistance

How to apply for Low Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP) + Crisis Intervention Program — Graham County DSS

Graham County Department of Social Services (196 Knight Street, Robbinsville, NC 28771). North Carolina's LIEAP (heating) and CIP (heating/cooling crisis) are administered locally by each county Department of Social Services and funded through NCDHHS.

Who it's for

Graham County Department of Social Services runs the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP), a one-time yearly payment toward heating bills, and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) for households facing a heating or cooling emergency. Households with someone age 60 or over, or a person with a disability who gets services through the Division of Aging, can apply starting December 1; all other households can apply January 1 through March 31 or until funds run out. Apply online through ePASS (https://epass.nc.gov) or contact the county DSS at 1-828-479-7911.

LIEAP and CIP are income-tested and have a reserves limit; benefits are first-come and run until annual funds are exhausted. The county DSS makes the final decision.

What you'll need

  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of household income
  • Proof of heating/cooling costs (utility bill)
  • Social Security numbers for household members

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 1-828-479-7911

Renewals

annual

Official source →Last verified · June 29, 2026

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