Ohio has been hit hard in the economic sector, coming in fifth in the nation for the number of lost jobs since the 2001 passage of NAFTA - with more companies closing on a regular basis. That means more Ohioans than ever are struggling with the high cost of heating a home in Ohio's icy winter conditions.
Ohio's Home Energy Assistance Program is divided into two sections to assist Ohioans struggling to heat their homes. The first section is Regular HEAP, which provides an annual one-time benefit for residents at or below 200 percent of the poverty level.
The second section of Ohio's Home Energy Assistance Program is the emergency component of the program, eHEAP. EHEAP is the winter crisis program that steps in with assistance when a residents home reaches either a 10-day supply of heating fuel or a disconnect notice. EHEAP is available November first through March thirty-first.
Who is Eligible to Apply for Ohio HEAP Benefits?
Ohio residents with incomes at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level can apply for assistance through the HEAP program as long as they do not live in federally-subsidized housing with heat included in the rent. Income eligibility is the same for both HEAP and eHEAP. Detailed charts regarding the number of people living in the household and eligible income amounts are provided on the Ohio Department of Development's website.
Where to Get an Application for Ohio HEAP Heating Assistance?
- Local utility provider's office
- Call the HEAP office and request an application
- Local Council's on Aging
- Community Action Agencies (to apply for eHEAP you have to make an appointment and visit one of the Community Action Agencies located in the County seats.)
- Libraries
- Job & Family Services
- Post Offices
What Information to Provide when Applying for Ohio HEAP Benefits
- Proof of income for the last 12 months (Include all sources of income for every member of the household.)
- Most recent heating bill (Include both heating fuel and electric bills if you have both.)
- Signed application
- The eHEAP program requires only three months proof of income, but annual income at or below the poverty level can be reviewed by the Community Action agency if the three-month income is above 200% of the federal poverty level.
While HEAP is primarily focused on providing warmth during the cold months, Ohio's eHEAP program also offers assistance one time per year during the summer months.
Resources:
Ohio Department of Development Website
Public Utilities Comission of Ohio Website
Information about the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program in other states. LIHEAP
Laure Justice - Laure is a Topic Editor for Suite101, covering three topics. View her full profile for details and contact information.
Join the Conversation