Oklahoma LIHEAP (Energy Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
Oklahoma LIHEAP has three parts: Winter Heating, Summer Cooling, and the Energy Crisis Assistance Program (ECAP). A life-threatening version of ECAP runs year-round for households needing lifesaving medical equipment. Apply online at OKDHSLive.org during open enrollment, or for a life-threatening emergency call (405) 522-5050 and select the energy option.
The income line is 130 percent of poverty ($1,696 a month for one person, $2,888 for three, $3,483 for four). An earned-income deduction of $240 per employed household member is subtracted first, which can bring you under the line.
Here is the catch people get wrong: LIHEAP is not year-round open enrollment. Each component opens on a specific date with a limited window. For the 2026 federal year, Winter Heating opened January 6, ECAP opened April 14, and Summer Cooling opened July 14. Mark the window you need, because missing it means waiting.
You must be responsible for your utility payment, be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, and include everyone sharing your meter. Processing can take up to 60 calendar days, so apply early in the window.
The money goes where the bill is: benefits are generally paid directly to your energy vendor rather than to you.
Pair LIHEAP with weatherization to lower future bills, and dial 2-1-1 for other local utility funds if a shut-off is looming outside these windows.
Phone 405-522-5050
Help available in English and Spanish.
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- Income-based; you must be responsible for your home energy bill, meet the income limit for your household size, and be a U.S. citizen or lawfully present
- Each part opens in its own short window and funds are limited, so apply the day your window opens; the crisis program is the one to reach for in an emergency
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online at OKDHSLive.org during the open window for the component you need.
- 2
Confirm your income is at or below 130 percent of poverty after the $240 earned-income deduction.
- 3
For a life-threatening emergency, call (405) 522-5050 and select the energy option.
- 4
Apply early; processing can take up to 60 days.
What to have ready
- A recent utility bill and any disconnection notice
- Proof of income for household members
- ID and proof of citizenship or legal residency.
What the application looks like
Common questions
What is the income limit for Oklahoma LIHEAP?
130 percent of poverty ($1,696 a month for one person, $3,483 for four), after a $240 earned-income deduction per employed member.
When can I apply?
Each component has its own limited window. For 2026, Winter Heating opened January 6, ECAP April 14, and Summer Cooling July 14. It is not year-round.
Does it help with summer cooling?
Yes. Summer Cooling is one of the three components, alongside Winter Heating and the Energy Crisis Assistance Program.
How is the benefit paid?
Generally directly to your energy vendor rather than to you. Processing can take up to 60 days.
Not sure this is the right program for your situation?
See all Oklahoma programs →Free · Private · No account needed