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Need help with winter heating bills? You may qualify for LIHEAP

November 12, 2008

The cold weather is upon us and anyone who hasn’t yet turned on their heat is likely to do so in the upcoming days.

Most everyone is concerned about the cost of heating their homes. For some people the concern is far greater because they cannot afford to pay their heating bills.

Today in Pittsburgh, Dominion Gas, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania and Equitable Gas joined together to kick off the LIHEAP program for 2008.

LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps low-income families pay their heating bills.

Those who qualify for LIHEAP assistance can receive either a cash grant that is sent directly to your utility company or fuel provider or a crisis grant to help families who have an emergency and are in danger of being without heat.

The income guidelines have changed for the 2008-2009 program year, and you may be surprised at who can qualify.

Here are some of the income guidelines (based on a maximum yearly income):

1 person………….$23,110

2 people…….…$30,221

3 people………. $37,332

4 people………..$44,443

5 people………. $51,554 

If you are struggling to pay your heating bills, don’t wait to call for help. You can apply for LIHEAP assistance online at www.compass.state.pa.us or by calling (866) 857-7095 or for the hearing impaired (800) 451-5886. You can also visit your local county assistance office for an application.

Here’s what you need to apply:

·        Names of people in your household

·        Dates of birth for all household members

·        Social Security Numbers for all household members

·        Proof of income for members of your household

·        A recent heating bill

LIHEAP is already accepting applications. The program will remain open through March 31, 2009.

Written by admin · Filed Under News 

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