Connecticut Energy Assistance Program / CEAP (Winter Heating)
Last updated August 2026
The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program, CEAP, is the state's LIHEAP: help with winter heating bills for income-eligible households. The Department of Social Services runs it, and local Community Action Agencies deliver it. To apply, dial 2-1-1 to be connected to the agency that serves your town. You can apply online, by phone, email, mail, or in person through that agency.
Eligibility runs on income. Your household income must be at or below 60 percent of the state median income. For the 2025-2026 season, the annual limits are $47,764 for one person, $62,460 for two, $77,157 for three, and $91,854 for four, with higher limits for larger households. You are also eligible if you already receive SNAP, SSI, TANF, or other DSS benefits.
The benefit is a set amount for the season. Basic CEAP benefits for 2025-2026 range from $295 to $645, based on your household size, income, and heating source. Households that heat with deliverable fuels like oil, kerosene, or propane may qualify for extra fuel deliveries.
The season has clear dates. For 2025-2026, applications opened Monday, September 1, 2025 online and Tuesday, September 2, 2025 in person, and the deadline is May 29, 2026. Apply early, because the season fills up and heating problems tend to arrive fast.
CEAP serves both renters and homeowners, including some renters whose heat is included in their rent. Benefits usually go straight to your utility company or fuel vendor rather than to you, and the program can also help with shut-off protection and heating-equipment problems.
Do not stop at the heating bill. When you apply for CEAP, you are generally screened for the Weatherization Assistance Program too, which fixes the home so future bills are lower. Dial 2-1-1 for other local utility funds if a shut-off is looming.
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income-based; households at or below 60 percent of the state median income for their size may qualify, and both renters and homeowners can apply
- Covers households that heat with any fuel, and can help with shut-off protection, delivery of deliverable fuels, and heating-equipment problems
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Dial 2-1-1 to find the Community Action Agency that serves your town.
- 2
Apply online, by phone, email, mail, or in person through that agency.
- 3
Check the income limit: at or below 60 percent of state median income ($47,764 for one person, $91,854 for four).
- 4
If you already get SNAP, SSI, or TANF, you may already be eligible.
- 5
Apply before the May 29, 2026 deadline for the 2025-2026 season.
What to have ready
- A recent heating or utility bill, and any shut-off notice
- Proof of income for everyone in the home
- ID and proof of address. Your Community Action Agency confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Who qualifies for CEAP?
Households at or below 60 percent of state median income ($47,764 for one person, $91,854 for four for 2025-2026). Renters and homeowners both qualify, and getting SNAP, SSI, or TANF can make you eligible.
How much is the benefit?
Basic benefits for the 2025-2026 season range from $295 to $645, based on your household size, income, and heating source.
When can I apply?
For 2025-2026, applications opened September 1, 2025 online and September 2, 2025 in person, with a deadline of May 29, 2026.
How is the benefit paid?
Benefits usually go straight to your utility company or fuel vendor rather than to you.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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