LIEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program)
Last updated August 2026
LIEAP, the Low Income Energy Assistance Program, helps eligible West Virginia households with the cost of home heating. It can take a real bite out of the winter bills, so it is worth applying the moment the season opens.
Eligibility is based on your countable income for your household size. As examples, the maximum is about $2,454 a month for a one-person household and about $8,144 a month for a household of ten. The limits between those follow your household size.
There are two parts. Regular LIEAP pays cash to the household, or pays your utility or fuel vendor directly on your behalf. A separate crisis, or emergency, part helps households that have no resources and face losing their heat.
Timing is the trap with this program. Regular LIEAP runs for a short window each winter, and it usually starts with a mail-out to targeted households. If you wait, the money can run out before you apply, so treat the opening date as a deadline.
The Emergency LIEAP opening is announced separately from the regular season. So even if you missed the regular window, watch for the crisis opening if your heat is at risk.
You can apply online at WV PATH or through a local Department of Human Services office. The state also works with the Community Action Network and regional Area Agencies on Aging, which accept applications and can walk older residents through the paperwork.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income-based; households at or below the income limit for their size may qualify, and the limit rises with each additional household member
- The regular heating season program and the Emergency LIEAP crisis component open on set dates each winter, and funds are limited
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply as soon as the regular season opens, since funds are limited and the window is short.
- 2
Apply online at WV PATH, at a local DoHS office, or through a Community Action agency or Area Agency on Aging.
- 3
Report your household size and countable income.
- 4
If your heat is about to be shut off, ask about the crisis or emergency component.
- 5
Have a recent heating bill ready so payment can go to your vendor.
What to have ready
- Photo ID and Social Security numbers for the household
- Proof of income for everyone in the home
- A recent heating bill or a shut-off notice. Your local office confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
How do I apply for LIEAP?
Online at WV PATH, at a local Department of Human Services office, or through a Community Action agency or Area Agency on Aging.
What is the income limit?
It is set by household size. Examples are about $2,454 a month for one person and about $8,144 a month for a household of ten.
What if my heat is about to be cut off?
Ask about the crisis or emergency component, which helps households with no resources that face losing a heating source. Its opening is announced separately.
When can I apply?
Regular LIEAP runs for a short window each winter and usually begins with a mail-out. Apply as soon as it opens, because funds are limited.
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