Help With Heating and Cooling Bills: LIHEAP and Other Ways to Save
High energy bills hit hardest in winter and summer. Here is where to find help — and simple ways to use less.
Dottie’s take: Cardigan first, thermostat second. That’s the Dottie rule.
Keeping your home comfortable is a matter of health and safety, not just comfort. If your energy bills are hard to manage, help is available.
LIHEAP: help paying energy bills
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federal program run by each state. It can help pay heating and cooling bills, and in some cases help with emergencies like a shut-off notice. To find your local office, call the National Energy Assistance Referral line at 1-866-674-6327.
Weatherization help
The federal Weatherization Assistance Program helps eligible households make their homes more energy-efficient — things like insulation and sealing drafts — at no cost to you. It can lower your bills for years.
Ask your utility company
- Budget billing spreads your costs evenly across the year so there are no surprise winter or summer bills.
- Discount or assistance programs for older or lower-income customers.
- Medical protections — some utilities offer extra protection from shut-offs if someone in the home relies on medical equipment.
Simple ways to use less energy
- Seal drafts around doors and windows with weather stripping.
- Change furnace and A/C filters regularly.
- Use a programmable thermostat.
- Switch to LED light bulbs.
- Close curtains on hot afternoons; open them on sunny winter days.
Safety first: Never use an oven or outdoor grill to heat your home. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors work.
Dottie’s 30-second benefits check
Answer 2 quick yes-or-no questions to see which benefits you may qualify for. Free, no forms. Tap your age:
Under 65? Tap hereThis guide is for general information only. Program rules, dates and amounts can change and may vary by state. Please confirm details with the official program or a trusted advisor.
