LIHEAP in Nebraska
Nebraska LIHEAP, or Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, provides heating and cooling benefits to qualified residents. The program works in conjunction with utility companies providing residents with gas and electric service used to heat and cool the home. During peak heating and cooling months, bills can skyrocket leaving residents with the threat of disconnection if they cannot pay the increased bills. LIHEAP steps in and provides a bit of support to ease the financial burden. Utility companies that work with LIHEAP in Nebraska include:
- Aquila
- Black Hills Energy
- Cuming County Public Power District
- Hastings Utility
- Metropolitan Utilities District
- Nebraska Public Power District
- Niobrara Valley Electric Membership Corporation
- Omaha Public Power District
Nebraska LIHEAP Assistance
Nebraska is one of the few states that allow year-round LIHEAP applications. This means residents apply for aid as needed, not during a specific peak month – as is the case for most LIHEAP state programs. The open application procedures also means money could be exhausted during the winter months if enough applicants need assistance and qualify for the program.
During the 2012 LIHEAP season, Nebraska received more than $22 million. The program helped about 45,000 households in 2011. When applying, keep in mind there are minimum and maximum payments for heating and cooling support.
- Heating Benefits – Minimum $122; maximum $752
- Cooling Benefits – Minimum $81; maximum $262
The money provided by Nebraska LIHEAP is not enough to cover all heating or cooling bills in the summer and winter months. This program is designed to support residents in paying utility bills, not take 100% of the utility burden off the resident.
LIHEAP Application & How to Apply
Nebraska LIHEAP applications are processed by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. The income limits listed on the website for NDHHS are from a previous year, so disregard these income guidelines. Residents must visit a local office of NDHHS to submit an application. Applications are accepted year-round, but there is not enough funding to provide support year-round. As soon as the funds allotted for Nebraska are distributed, the program will be closed until the following calendar year. Applicants must reapply based on the current year’s income guidelines each year for continued LIHEAP support.
LIHEAP Eligibility – Am I Eligible?
If you meet the following income guidelines, you may be eligible for LIHEAP. Income must be verified with proper documentation before funds are released to your utility company.
|
Family Size |
116% of Poverty |
|
1 |
$12,632 |
|
2 |
$17,064 |
|
3 |
$21,495 |
|
4 |
$25,926 |
|
5 |
$30,357 |
|
6 |
$34,788 |
|
7 |
$39,220 |
|
8 |
$43,651 |
Families with more than eight members can add $4,431 to the total income allowed per additional family member. For instance, a family of seven can earn up to $48,082.
