New Hampshire Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Last updated August 2026
The New Hampshire Fuel Assistance Program helps income-eligible households pay the cost of winter heat. It is the state's version of the federal LIHEAP program. The New Hampshire Department of Energy runs it, but your local Community Action Agency takes the applications and pays your heating vendor directly. To apply, contact the Community Action Agency that serves your area, or dial 2-1-1 to find it.
The help is a grant, not a loan. Benefits range from $100 to $2,177 for the season, and the average benefit is about $1,045. You never have to pay it back. Just as helpful, the grant does not count as income when you apply for other assistance programs, so it will not lower your SNAP or other benefits.
The amount is targeted to need. The program looks at your household income, your energy costs, how cold your region gets, and your type of housing. That way the households with the lowest incomes and the highest heating costs get the largest benefits.
The income limit is set at 60 percent of the New Hampshire State Median Income, which is higher than many people expect. The maximum yearly income is $48,713 for one person, $63,702 for two, $78,691 for three, and $93,680 for four. The same income line is used for the Electric Assistance Program and the Weatherization Assistance Program, so one visit can point you to all three.
Both renters and homeowners can apply, including renters whose heat is part of the rent. The program runs during the heating season and the money is limited, so it helps to apply early. Your local Community Action Agency confirms the current dates and income limits for the program year.
The program also helps in a heating emergency. It can secure an emergency delivery of fuel, delay a shut-off notice, or point you to another source of help. If your heat is about to be cut off, say so clearly when you call. Pair Fuel Assistance with Weatherization to lower next winter's bills for good.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income-based; homeowners and renters can qualify, including renters whose heat is included in the rent
- The program runs during the heating season and funds are limited, so apply early; your local Community Action Agency confirms current dates and income limits
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Find the Community Action Agency serving your area, or dial 2-1-1 to locate it.
- 2
Set up an appointment and ask about the current program-year dates.
- 3
Gather proof of your household income and a recent heating bill.
- 4
If your heat is about to be shut off, say it is an emergency right away.
- 5
Ask the same agency to screen you for Weatherization and Electric Assistance.
What to have ready
- A recent heating or utility bill and any shut-off notice
- Proof of income for everyone in the household
- ID and proof of your address. Your Community Action Agency confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
How much does Fuel Assistance pay?
Benefits range from $100 to $2,177 for the season, with an average of about $1,045. It is a grant you do not repay, and it does not count as income for other programs.
What is the income limit?
It is 60 percent of the State Median Income: up to $48,713 a year for one person and $93,680 for a family of four. The same limit applies to Weatherization and Electric Assistance.
How do I apply?
Through your local Community Action Agency, which takes the application and pays your heating vendor. Dial 2-1-1 to find the agency near you.
What if my heat is about to be shut off?
Tell your agency it is an emergency. The program can secure an emergency fuel delivery, delay a shut-off notice, or refer you to another source of help.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
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