Benefits · Emergency Aid

How to apply for Philadelphia County Assistance Office (CAO) — LIHEAP Energy Assistance Delivery

Philadelphia County Assistance Office (CAO), part of Pennsylvania DHS — administers PA LIHEAP and other public assistance programs for Philadelphia residents; multiple CAO district offices across the city

Who it's for

Philadelphia CAO delivers PA LIHEAP (Cash + Crisis + Crisis Interface) for Philadelphia residents. Same eligibility as the state program (~150% FPL). Apply through any of Philadelphia's CAO district offices, at COMPASS (compass.state.pa.us), at BenePhilly enrollment centers, or by calling 215-560-7226. Seniors age 60+ may also apply through PCA (215-765-9040) for priority processing. Philadelphia also has supplemental Utility Emergency Services Fund (UESF) — a separately funded utility crisis program for households over the LIHEAP cutoff; apply via uesfacts.org.

Philadelphia CAO delivery of PA LIHEAP. UESF supplements LIHEAP for households above the cutoff — unique to Philadelphia metro.

What you'll need

  • Proof of all household income
  • Recent heating bill (or rent receipt if heat included)
  • Proof of Philadelphia residency
  • Social Security numbers for all household members
  • Photo identification

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 215-560-7226

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Philadelphia County Assistance Office (CAO) — LIHEAP Energy Assistance Delivery. 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 all household income, recent heating bill (or rent receipt if heat included), proof of philadelphia residencyis 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 application per program year

Official source →Last verified · June 9, 2026

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