Benefits · Energy Assistance
How to apply for Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) — Energy Crisis Assistance
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Social Services (administered by county DSS)
Who it's for
The Crisis Intervention Program helps North Carolina households that are in a heating or cooling emergency — for example, a disconnect notice or no working heat or air conditioning. It pays toward the bill to keep service on. It is available year-round while funds last, for households with income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level who are facing a life-threatening or health-related energy crisis. Apply at your county DSS or ePASS.
CIP requires an actual heating or cooling crisis — a household 'currently experiencing or in danger of experiencing a life-threatening or health-related emergency,' such as no heat/cooling source or a disconnect notice. Income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. It is not age-restricted but is widely used by seniors. Applied for at the county DSS while federal funds last.
What you'll need
- Proof of the energy crisis (e.g., a disconnect notice)
- A copy of your heating/cooling bill
- Social Security number(s)
- Proof of citizenship/eligible immigration status
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-800-662-7030
Renewals
as needed (per crisis)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.