How to apply for Low Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP) and Crisis Intervention (CIP) — Wilson County DSS in North Carolina

Who it's for

North Carolina's Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) gives a one-time payment toward heating costs, and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) helps when a household faces a heating or cooling emergency. Both are run by the Wilson County Department of Social Services. Households that include a person age 60 or older, or a person with a disability receiving services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services, can sign up early — starting December 10; all other households apply January 1 through March 31, until funds run out. CIP applications are taken year-round (July 1 to June 30) and need a past-due or final-notice utility bill showing a heating or cooling emergency. Apply online through ePASS at epass.nc.gov, by phone at 252-206-4000, or at the county DSS office at 100 W. Gold Street in Wilson.

What you'll need

• Identification (ID)
• Proof of all household income (wage stubs, award letters, or tax forms)
• Recent heating bill (copy)
• Social Security numbers for household members
• Lease, rental agreement, or other proof of address

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Low Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP) and Crisis Intervention (CIP) — Wilson County DSS. 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 identification (ID), proof of all household income (wage stubs, award letters, or tax forms), recent heating bill (copy) — 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.

Renewals

annual application per program year