North Dakota LIHEAP (Energy Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
LIHEAP helps income-eligible North Dakota households pay home heating and energy costs. It partly pays for natural gas, electricity, propane, fuel oil, coal, wood, or other fuel. It also covers weatherization, furnace cleaning, repair, or replacement, chimney cleaning, emergency help, and help with a cooling device. Apply online through the Self Service Portal, by paper, or by mail.
The income rule uses state median income. Your household income must be at or below 60 percent of North Dakota's median income. For the 2025-2026 season, that limit is $40,530 a year ($3,378 a month) for one person, $53,010 for two, and $77,958 for a family of four. The Customer Support Center can run the exact number for your household size.
Do not believe the myth that LIHEAP only helps in winter. Not anymore. North Dakota now issues heating benefits year-round. Benefits are no longer tied to the old Oct. 1 to May 31 heating season, and applications are taken all year. Help continues until your household's review date.
Renters qualify too, not just homeowners. Both homeowner and renter households are eligible. Tribal LIHEAP programs serve tribal members living on reservations in the state.
Handle emergencies fast. If you have a shut-off or disconnection notice, are out of deliverable fuel, or need minor repairs, contact the Customer Support Center at 1-866-614-6005. You must also report changes like a move, a change in heat type, or a change in who lives with you within 10 days.
Get free help and stack support. Call Community Options at 1-800-823-2417 for free help applying. Pair LIHEAP with weatherization to lower future bills, and dial 2-1-1 for other local utility funds if a shut-off is looming.
Phone 1-866-614-6005
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 the Customer Support Center confirms the current limits
- Both homeowners and renters can qualify, and being on other income-tested programs can help establish eligibility
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online through the Self Service Portal, by paper form, or by mail.
- 2
Have proof of income and a recent heating or utility bill ready.
- 3
For an emergency, contact the Customer Support Center at 1-866-614-6005 right away.
- 4
Call Community Options at 1-800-823-2417 for free help filling it out.
- 5
Ask about weatherization and a cooling device once you are approved.
What to have ready
- A recent heating or utility bill and any shut-off notice
- Proof of income for household members
- ID and proof of address. The Customer Support Center confirms the exact list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
Is LIHEAP only for winter?
No. North Dakota now issues heating benefits year-round, and applications are taken all year. Benefits are no longer tied to the old Oct. 1 to May 31 season.
What is the income limit?
Your income must be at or below 60 percent of North Dakota's median income: $40,530 a year for one person and $77,958 for a family of four in the 2025-2026 season.
Can renters get it?
Yes. Both homeowner and renter households can qualify.
What if my power is about to be shut off?
For a shut-off notice, no deliverable fuel, or minor repairs, contact the Customer Support Center at 1-866-614-6005.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
See all North Dakota programs →Free · Private · No account needed