The Ohio Department of Development and Bridges Community Action Partnership wants to ensure Ohioans stay warm and comfortable this winter by helping alleviate the burden of costly energy bills.
From November 1st, 2023 through March 31st, 2024 income income-eligible Ohioans can receive one-time assistance with their home energy bill through the Department of Development’s Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program.
The Winter Crisis Program assists Ohioans facing service disconnection, have been disconnected, need to establish new service, need to pay to transfer service, have a percentage of income payment plan default, need to make their first PIPP payment or have 25% or less supply of bulk fuel in their tank to maintain service.
Qualifying households must have a gross annual income of at or below 175% of the federal poverty level.
For a family of four, that is up to $52,500.
Last year, the winter crisis program assisted more than 67,000 households in Ohio, providing a total of 19 million in benefits.
“A warm and comfortable home should not be a luxury only some people can afford,” said Lydia Mihilik, Director of the Department of Development. “This program does more than just provide financial assistance, it shows some of our most vulnerable residents that were here to lend a helping hand when they need it most.”
Households serviced by a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio regulated utility must sign up for the PIPP program or another payment plan if they’re still an outstanding balance on the utility bill after receiving assistance.
Ohioans can start their application online but need to schedule an appointment with their local energy assistance provider to complete the application.
Depending on the agency, the appointment may be in person, on the phone, or virtual.
The application and list of providers can be found online at energyhelp.ohio.gov.
Ohioans can also call 1-800-282-0880 2. To find their local provider.
Hearing-impaired customers may dial 711 for assistance.
Clients need to bring copies of the following documents to their appointment :
- Copies of their most recent energy bills
- A list of all household numbers and proof of income for the last 30 days or 12 months for each member
- Proof of US citizenship or legal residency for household members
- Proof of disability if applicable
HEAP benefits will be applied to an individual’s energy bill after January 1st.
If you need immediate assistance with your energy bills, please contact your local energy assistance provider.
A list of providers can be found at energyhelp.ohio.gov.
Applications for the HEAP winter crisis program must be received by March 31st, 2024.
The last day to apply for the regular HEAP benefits is May 31st, 2024.
For more information on the programs, visit energy.ohio.gov or call your local energy assistance provider.