Montana LIEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program)
Last updated August 2026
LIEAP, the Low Income Energy Assistance Program, helps low-income Montana households pay winter heating bills. It can also help with a furnace emergency during the heating season. Apply from October 1 through April 30 by delivering or mailing the combined LIEAP and Weatherization application to your local eligibility office. For help, call the Human and Community Services Division at 406-444-1788.
The program is run locally by Human Resource Development Councils, called HRDCs, and by Tribal LIHEAP offices. One combined form covers both LIEAP heating help and weatherization. You can fill it out online, but you must print and sign it before you turn it in.
Eligibility is based on income and household size. For the 2025 to 2026 program year, the upper income limit is $64,846 for a household of four. For a household of one it is $33,719, for two it is $44,095, and for three it is $54,470. For most household sizes this limit is set at 60 percent of the state median income.
There is also a resource limit. For 2025 to 2026 it is $14,358 for a household of one and $24,896 for a household of four. It adds $1,465 for each extra member, up to a maximum of $29,290 per household.
The benefit is set by a matrix based on your home type, number of bedrooms, and heating fuel. For a single-family home with one bedroom, the base benefit ranges from $531 for natural gas up to $1,234 for fuel oil. Electric is $839, propane is $1,034, wood is $641, and coal is $462. The benefit rises with more bedrooms.
Both homeowners and renters can apply. If your home already gets SNAP or SSI, you may be looked at for help automatically. Whether you qualify is up to the program. Ask about weatherization on the same form to lower future bills, and dial 2-1-1 for other local utility help if a shut-off is near.
Phone 406-444-1788
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 homeowners and renters both qualify
- Households already getting SNAP, SSI, or TANF may qualify automatically; apply between October 1 and April 30 for the heating season
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Get the combined LIEAP and Weatherization application from your local HRDC or Tribal LIHEAP office.
- 2
Apply during the heating season, October 1 through April 30.
- 3
Fill out the form, then print and sign it before you turn it in.
- 4
If your heat is out, ask about a furnace emergency right away.
- 5
Ask about weatherization on the same form to lower future bills.
What to have ready
- A recent heating bill and any shut-off notice
- Proof of income for the household
- ID and proof of your address. Your local eligibility office confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
What is the income limit for a household of four?
For the 2025 to 2026 program year the upper income limit is $64,846 for a household of four, set at 60 percent of the state median income.
When can I apply?
During the heating season, October 1 through April 30, at your local eligibility office.
How much is the benefit?
It depends on your home. For a single-family home with one bedroom, the base benefit ranges from $531 for natural gas up to $1,234 for fuel oil, and rises with more bedrooms.
Can renters apply?
Yes. Both homeowners and renters may apply. Homes that already get SNAP or SSI may be looked at automatically.
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