How to apply for Arizona Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Who it's for

LIHEAP helps Arizona households pay heating and cooling utility bills and handle energy emergencies. Eligibility is based on income at or below 60% of the State Median Income — in federal fiscal year 2026 that is about $33,690/year for one person, $44,056 for two, $54,422 for three, and $64,789 for a household of four (higher for larger households). Households already getting SNAP or cash assistance are automatically income-eligible. Apply through your local Community Action Agency.

What you'll need

• Photo ID
• Proof of income for all household members
• A recent utility bill or disconnect notice
• Proof of residence and household size

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Arizona Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). 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 photo ID, proof of income for all household members, a recent utility bill or disconnect notice — 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. Confirm eligibility — your household income must be at or below 60% of the Arizona State Median Income (about $33,690/year for one person, $44,056 for two, $54,422 for three, or $64,789 for four in FFY2026; higher for larger households). If your household already receives SNAP or cash assistance, you are automatically income-eligible.
2. Gather your documents — collect a photo ID, proof of income for all household members, a recent utility bill or disconnect notice, and proof of residence and household size.
3. Find your local Community Action Agency — LIHEAP in Arizona is delivered through local Community Action Agencies. Contact the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) by phone at 1-866-494-1981 to locate the agency serving your area.
4. Apply online or by phone — submit your application through the online portal or by calling 1-866-494-1981. Both options are available statewide.
5. Submit all required documents — provide your photo ID, income proof, utility bill or disconnect notice, and proof of residence and household size along with your application.
6. Watch for a decision and respond promptly — if the agency needs more information, reply quickly. Processing times vary; ask your local Community Action Agency for an estimate.
7. Renew every year — LIHEAP assistance requires annual renewal. Keep track of your renewal date and reapply each program year (October through September) to avoid a gap in benefits.

What to expect: After submitting your application, your local Community Action Agency will review your documents and determine your eligibility. Processing times vary, so contact your agency directly for an estimate. If approved, assistance is applied toward your heating or cooling utility bills — both matter in Arizona's climate. Keep in mind that LIHEAP funds are limited and awarded throughout the program year (October–September), so applying early is important. Benefits must be renewed annually, so watch for renewal notices and reapply each year to keep your assistance active. If your income is above 60% of the State Median Income, ask your agency about Power AZ, a related state program that may help households up to 100% of the State Median Income.

Renewals

annual

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