California LIHEAP (Energy Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
California LIHEAP helps low-income households pay their energy bills. There is no single statewide application. The state agency, CSD, funds a network of local community action agencies, and you apply with the one that covers your county. Find your local agency with the zip-code finder at csd.ca.gov/energybills. If the finder is confusing, call the CSD helpline at (866) 675-6623 and it will tell you which agency serves your address.
The core benefit, called HEAP, is a one-time payment each program year toward your energy bill. It is not an ongoing monthly discount. It covers deliverable fuels too, so households that heat with wood, propane, or oil can qualify, not just gas and electric customers. The exact dollar amount is set by your local agency and depends on your income, household size, fuel, and region.
If your power is about to be shut off, there is a faster lane. ECIP, the Energy Crisis Intervention Program, is built for households holding a 24 to 48 hour disconnect notice or whose service was already turned off. Providers advertise Fast Track emergency appointments. ECIP can also pay for an emergency repair or replacement of a broken furnace or air conditioner, a separate lane from paying the bill.
Eligibility is income-based. The 2026 monthly gross income limits are $3,331.66 for one person, $4,356.83 for two, $5,382.00 for three, $6,407.16 for four, $7,432.25 for five, and $8,457.41 for six. Eligibility and services vary by provider and income source, so the local agency has the final word. The CSD income table is the starting point, not a promise of payment.
One warning: LIHEAP money is limited. California's federal grant for 2026 is $236.7 million, providers serve the most vulnerable households first, and eligible people can still be turned away when the funds run out, so apply early in the season. The same door also reaches free LIHEAP weatherization, like insulation, weatherstripping, caulking, efficient furnaces, and water heater blankets. LIHEAP and CARE stack, and being on LIHEAP makes you eligible for the CARE utility discount automatically, so get both.
Phone 1-866-675-6623
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income-based; contact your local agency through the CSD provider list
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Find your local LIHEAP agency with the finder at csd.ca.gov/energybills, or call (866) 675-6623.
- 2
If you have a 24 to 48 hour disconnect notice, say it is an emergency and ask about ECIP crisis help.
- 3
Check the income table (about $3,331.66 a month for one person, $6,407.16 for four), knowing the local agency has the final word.
- 4
Apply early in the season, since funding is limited and can run out.
- 5
Ask the same agency about free weatherization and about the CARE discount on your bill.
What to have ready
- Photo ID
- A recent energy bill or any disconnect notice
- Proof of income for the adults in the home. Your local agency confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
How do I apply for LIHEAP?
Through your local community action agency, not the state or your utility. Find it at csd.ca.gov/energybills or call the CSD helpline at (866) 675-6623.
Is LIHEAP a monthly discount?
No. HEAP is one-time help each program year. The monthly discount is CARE or FERA, a separate program you should also get. Being on LIHEAP makes you CARE-eligible automatically.
What is the income limit?
The 2026 monthly gross limits are $3,331.66 for one person, $4,356.83 for two, $5,382.00 for three, $6,407.16 for four, and higher for larger homes.
What if my power is about to be shut off?
Ask about ECIP, the crisis program for a 24 to 48 hour disconnect notice or a shut-off that already happened. Providers offer Fast Track appointments.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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