Delaware Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Last updated August 2026
The Delaware Energy Assistance Program, also called DEAP, helps low-income households with home energy costs. Apply online through the Delaware ASSIST portal at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, call the Division of Social Services at 302-255-9875, or call a community partner in your county. Catholic Charities and First State Community Action Agency run intake across the state.
The program has three parts. Winter heating help runs from October 1 through March 31 and covers heating for both homeowners and renters, whether the home uses electricity, natural gas, oil, propane, or wood. Crisis help runs all year. And summer cooling help gives a one-time payment toward summer electric bills.
The summer part can go further than a bill payment. Households with a clear need may also qualify for a free window air conditioner, though you must have applied for LIHEAP first.
Crisis help is the fast lane. It is available year-round for an active emergency, such as a utility shut-off or disconnection notice, a fuel tank at or below 10 percent, or a past-due energy bill. If your power is about to be cut, name the emergency when you contact your agency.
Eligibility is based on income. The program caps income at 60 percent of Delaware's State Median Income, measured after federal and local taxes, so the limit is set differently from programs that use the poverty level. Being enrolled in other income-tested programs can help show that you qualify. Ask your intake agency for the current figure for your household size.
DEAP is a supplement, not a full bill payer. It can greatly reduce your energy costs, but it may not cover everything, so pair it with weatherization for lasting savings and dial 2-1-1 for other local utility funds.
Phone 302-255-9875
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 the program's income limit for their size may qualify, and being on other income-tested programs can help establish eligibility
- Crisis Assistance runs all year for an active emergency like a shutoff, a past-due bill, or an empty fuel tank
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online through Delaware ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, or through a community partner agency.
- 2
Call the Division of Social Services at 302-255-9875, or your county Catholic Charities office, to start.
- 3
Ask your agency for the current income limit for your household size.
- 4
For a shut-off, empty fuel tank, or past-due bill, ask about year-round Crisis Assistance right away.
- 5
Ask about summer cooling help and a possible free window air conditioner.
What to have ready
- A recent energy bill and any disconnection notice
- Proof of income for household members
- ID and proof of address. Your intake agency confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
What does Delaware's energy program cover?
Winter heating help from October 1 through March 31, year-round crisis help for an emergency, and summer cooling help that can include a free window air conditioner.
What is the income limit?
Income is capped at 60 percent of Delaware's State Median Income, after federal and local taxes. Ask your intake agency for the current dollar figure for your household size.
What if my power is about to be shut off?
Ask about Crisis Assistance, which runs all year for an active emergency like a shut-off notice, a fuel tank at or below 10 percent, or a past-due bill.
Who takes the applications?
Catholic Charities and First State Community Action Agency run intake through community partners statewide. You can also apply online through Delaware ASSIST.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
See all Delaware programs →Free · Private · No account needed