How to apply for LIHEAP — California Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

Who it's for

LIHEAP helps low-income California households pay their home energy bills — electricity, natural gas, propane, wood, or oil. California's LIHEAP runs three sub-programs: HEAP (a one-time bill-payment credit), ECIP (Energy Crisis Intervention Program for households facing disconnection or already out of energy), and the Low-Income Weatherization Program (free home improvements that reduce energy use, like attic insulation, refrigerator replacement, weather stripping). Eligibility is based on household income at or below 60% of California's State Median Income, which varies by household size.

What you'll need

• Photo ID for the applicant
• Most recent utility bill (electric, gas, propane, etc.)
• Proof of income for all household members for the past month
• Social Security numbers for all household members
• Proof of California residency

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about LIHEAP — California Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. 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 for the applicant, most recent utility bill (electric, gas, propane, etc.), proof of income for all household members for the past month — 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. Gather your required documents: a photo ID, your most recent utility bill (electric, gas, propane, or other home energy), proof of income for all household members for the past month, Social Security numbers for all household members, and proof of California residency.
2. Choose how you want to apply — online through the official LIHEAP application portal or by phone at 1-866-675-6623.
3. Submit your application online or with the help of a phone representative. Have all your documents ready so you can answer questions accurately.
4. After submitting, keep copies of everything you provided in case the agency needs follow-up information.
5. Watch for a notice about your application status. If you are approved for ECIP due to a disconnection notice or energy shutoff, let the agency know right away, as that sub-program is designed for urgent situations.
6. Mark your calendar to reapply each year. LIHEAP benefits must be renewed annually to continue receiving assistance.

What to expect: After you submit your application, the local agency will review your documents and determine which LIHEAP sub-program — HEAP, ECIP, or the Low-Income Weatherization Program — you may qualify for. Processing times vary, so contact the agency at 1-866-675-6623 for an estimate if you need one. If approved for HEAP, a one-time bill-payment credit will be applied to your energy account. If approved for ECIP, help is prioritized for households facing disconnection or already without energy. If selected for the Weatherization Program, a contractor will schedule free home improvements to help lower your energy costs long term. Because LIHEAP benefits are renewed annually, you will need to reapply each year to keep receiving assistance — watch for renewal reminders from the agency and have updated documents ready.

Renewals

annual

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