How to apply for LIHEAP energy assistance (South Carolina)

Who it's for

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps households pay home heating and cooling bills. In South Carolina, LIHEAP is run through local Community Action Agencies, not by the state office. Income must be at or below 60% of the State Median Income: $2,660 a month for one person, $3,486.42 for two, $4,306.75 for three, and $5,127.08 for four. You need proof of citizenship or qualified immigrant status, a South Carolina ID, 30 days of gross income for adults in the home, and a current energy bill in an adult's name. LIHEAP does not pay water or sewer bills. Help depends on available funds. Contact the Community Action Agency for your county to apply.

What you'll need

• Proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified immigrant status for everyone in the home
• South Carolina government-issued ID
• Gross income for the last 30 days for all household members 18 and older
• Current energy bill in an adult household member's name

Where to apply

Step by step

1. Check that your household may qualify. In South Carolina, income must be at or below 60% of the State Median Income. LIHEAP helps with home heating and cooling bills, not water or sewer bills.
2. Gather your documents. You will need proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified immigrant status for everyone in the home, a South Carolina government-issued ID, gross income for the last 30 days for all household members age 18 and older, and a current energy bill in an adult household member's name.
3. Make sure your energy bill is current and in an adult household member's name before you apply.
4. Apply online through the local Community Action Agency for your county. In South Carolina, LIHEAP is run through local Community Action Agencies, not by the state office.
5. Complete the application with your household details, income from the last 30 days, and energy bill information.
6. Follow up with the local Community Action Agency if more information is requested or if you want an estimate of processing time.

What to expect: After you apply, the local Community Action Agency reviews your application and makes the final decision. Processing times vary. Being eligible does not guarantee help because funds are limited, and the local agency may limit how often a household is served or pay less than the state maximum. If approved, help is for home heating or cooling bills only. Renew every year if you still need help.

Renewals

annual