Ohioans who need help managing their winter heating bills can now apply for assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).
The Ohio Department of Development and Bridges Community Action are reminding residents that applications will be accepted through May 31, 2026.
HEAP provides financial help to income-eligible households—those at or below 175% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for families up to eight, and 60% of the State Median Income for households of nine or more.
The benefit is applied directly to a customer’s utility or bulk fuel bill, helping reduce out-of-pocket heating costs.
Older adults can visit their local Area Agency on Aging for assistance in assembling documents and completing the application.
Applications can also be submitted online at energyhelp.ohio.gov, where printable forms are available.
Required documents include:
- Most recent utility bills
- A list of all household members, including birthdates and Social Security numbers
- Proof of income for the past 30 days (or 12 months for certain income types)
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency for all household members
- Proof of disability, if applicable
HEAP benefits will begin appearing on energy bills after January 1.
All applications must be received by May 31, 2026.
For help applying, contact Bridges Community Action at 937-404-9203.
To connect with your local Energy Assistance Provider, call 800-282-0880 (or dial 711 for hearing-impaired assistance), or visit energyhelp.ohio.gov.
