How to apply for LIHEAP — Home Energy Assistance Program (New Jersey)

Who it's for

NJ LIHEAP helps low-income households pay heating bills (Nov 1 - Jun 30 program year) and emergency cooling assistance. Income limit: 60% of state median income ($51,273 for 1 person, $67,049 for 2 — more generous than the federal 150% FPL standard). Benefits range from $200 to $1,200+ depending on household size, fuel type, and income. Apply via DCAid (dcaid.dca.nj.gov), at a local LIHEAP administering agency (21 counties — see DCA list), or call 1-800-510-3102. Includes Universal Service Fund (USF) which provides additional electric/gas bill credits for ongoing year-round assistance.

What you'll need

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

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about LIHEAP — Home Energy Assistance Program (New Jersey). 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 NJ residency — 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 the required documents: proof of all household income, a recent heating bill (or rent receipt if heat is included in rent), proof of New Jersey residency, Social Security numbers for all household members, and a photo ID.
2. Check your income against the program limit — NJ LIHEAP uses 60% of state median income, which is more generous than the federal standard, so more households may qualify than expected.
3. Choose how you want to apply: online through the DCAid portal, by phone at 1-800-510-3102, or in person at your county's local LIHEAP administering agency (contact the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs for the agency in your county).
4. Submit your application with all required documents through your chosen channel. If applying online or by phone, have your documents ready to reference or upload.
5. Ask about the Universal Service Fund (USF) when you apply — USF provides additional electric and gas bill credits year-round, on top of seasonal LIHEAP benefits.
6. Keep a copy of your application and any confirmation number or receipt you receive for your records.

What to expect: After submitting, the local LIHEAP administering agency will review your application and documents. Processing times vary, so contact your local agency or call 1-800-510-3102 for an estimate. If approved, benefits ranging from $200 to $1,200 or more — depending on household size, fuel type, and income — are typically paid directly to your heating provider. Because LIHEAP is an annual program, you will need to reapply each program year (November 1 through June 30). If you are also enrolled in USF, that program provides ongoing year-round utility bill credits in addition to your seasonal LIHEAP benefit.

Renewals

annual