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

Who it's for

LIHEAP helps Iowa households with low income pay part of their home heating costs for the winter. Both homeowners and renters can apply. Households with someone age 60 or older or with a disability can apply starting October 1; all other households can apply starting November 1. Applications are taken first come, first served through April 30. For October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027, household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines: $31,920 a year for one person, $43,280 for two, $54,640 for three, or $66,000 for four. The benefit is a one-time payment toward heating costs, usually between $80 and $800, based on income, household size, home type, and heating fuel. Apply at the community action agency for your county. If you cannot find your county's agency, call the Iowa Community Action Agencies Unit at 515-776-8871.

What you'll need

• Proof of income for the last 30 days, the last calendar year, or the last 12 months
• Proof of citizenship status for all household members
• Current utility bills
• Landlord statement or rental agreement, if you rent

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Iowa 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 proof of income for the last 30 days, the last calendar year, or the last 12 months, proof of citizenship status for all household members, current utility bills — 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. Check that your household can apply. Both homeowners and renters can apply. Households with someone age 60 or older or with a disability can apply starting October 1. All other households can apply starting November 1. Applications are taken through April 30 on a first-come, first-served basis.
2. Make sure your household meets the income limit and has a home energy burden. For October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027, household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.
3. Gather your required documents. Get proof of income for the last 30 days, the last calendar year, or the last 12 months; proof of citizenship status for all household members; current utility bills; and a landlord statement or rental agreement if you rent.
4. Apply through the community action agency for your county. Submit your application online or apply by phone.
5. Call 1-515-776-8871 if you cannot find the community action agency for your county or if you need help applying.
6. Answer any follow-up questions from the local community action agency and provide any extra information they ask for.

What to expect: After you apply, the local community action agency reviews your information and makes the decision, usually within 30 days. If approved, the benefit is a one-time payment toward heating costs, and the amount depends on your income, household size, home type, and fuel type. You must apply again each heating season between October 1 and April 30.

Renewals

annual (apply each heating season, October 1 to April 30)