Iowa Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)
Last updated August 2026
Iowa's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP, helps qualifying households pay part of their winter heating costs. You do not apply online. You apply at your local community action agency. Each agency serves a set of counties. The state Community Action Agencies Unit line is 515-776-8871, and you can find your agency at iowacommunityaction.org.
The income line is clear. LIHEAP uses 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. For the 2025 to 2026 season, the annual limits are $31,300 for one person, $42,300 for two, $53,300 for three, and $64,300 for four. For a household with more than eight members, add $11,000 a year for each extra person.
The dates depend on who is in your home. Households with a member age 60 or older or with a disability may apply starting October 1. All other households may apply starting November 1. Applications are accepted through April 30, on a first-come, first-served basis. So apply early in the season.
The biggest protection is the winter shutoff rule. If you are certified eligible for LIHEAP, your utility cannot shut off your service from November 1 through April 1. This is set in Iowa Administrative Code 199-19.4. You must be certified by the community action agency first, so apply before the cold sets in.
The shutoff rule delays the bill, but it does not erase it. You still owe the utility for the service you used during that winter period. Use the protected months to catch up, not to fall further behind.
One trip can open two doors. The same community action agency that runs LIHEAP also runs the Weatherization Assistance Program. Weatherization fixes your home to lower future bills. Ask about it while you apply. And dial 2-1-1 for other local utility funds if a shutoff is looming.
Phone 515-776-8871
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Household income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines
- Apply starting October 1 if someone in the home is 60 or older or has a disability, November 1 otherwise, through April 30
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Find your local community action agency at iowacommunityaction.org or call 515-776-8871.
- 2
Check the income limit: 200 percent of poverty, which is $31,300 a year for one person and $64,300 for four in the 2025 to 2026 season.
- 3
Apply starting October 1 if someone in the home is 60 or older or has a disability; November 1 otherwise, through April 30.
- 4
Ask the agency to certify you so the November 1 to April 1 shutoff protection applies.
- 5
Ask about weatherization at the same agency to lower future bills.
What to have ready
- A recent heating bill and any disconnection notice
- Proof of income for household members
- ID and proof of your Iowa address. Your community action agency confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
What is the income limit for Iowa LIHEAP?
200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. For the 2025 to 2026 season that is $31,300 a year for one person, $42,300 for two, $53,300 for three, and $64,300 for four.
When can I apply?
October 1 if a household member is 60 or older or has a disability, and November 1 for everyone else. Applications are accepted through April 30, first come first served.
Can my heat be shut off in winter?
If you are certified eligible for LIHEAP, your utility cannot shut off service from November 1 through April 1 under Iowa Administrative Code 199-19.4.
Does the winter rule erase my bill?
No. It delays shutoff but you still owe the utility for the service you used during that period.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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