LIHEAP Nevada

LIHEAP in Nevada

Nevada weather is unlike any other state. Summers can reach 120 degrees or higher and winters dive into the low 30s one day and high 60s the next. There is no predicting how the weather will turn, so the LIHEAP application deadlines are open throughout the year. LIHEAP, also known as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program or Energy Assistance Program (EAP), sends funds directly to the utility companies responsible for primary heating and cooling in the applicants home. Some of the major utility companies in Nevada include:

• Lincoln County Power District
• NV Energy
• Sierra Air
• Southwest Gas Corporation
• Nevada Power
• Valley Electric Association

Nevada LIHEAP Assistance

Nevada LIHEAP receives lower funding than most states with just more than $8 million in the fund for 2012. Despite the lower than average funding, Nevada LIHEAP helped more than 32,000 homes stay cool and warm in Nevada for 2011. Applicants in Nevada are not required to meet a certain application deadline, but funding is limited so early applications are recommended. The minimum benefit awarded by Nevada LIHEAP is $180, but the average home receives $500. The maximum benefit for Nevada applicants is $1,705.

The state of Nevada raises funds through the Universal Energy Charge to fund additional LIHEAP distributions. It is estimated that the charge raises more than $10 million each year with 75% of that money going straight to the state LIHEAP fund.

LIHEAP Application & How to Apply

The Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services controls LIHEAP in Nevada. Residents can contact the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services at 1-702-486-1404 in Las Vegas and 1-775-684-0730 in Reno and Carson City. There are local agencies ready to take your LIHEAP application in nearly every county in Nevada, so residents don’t have to travel long distances to apply.

The application process for LIHEAP involves proving your income and family size. You’ll need social security cards for each family member and income statements from the previous 30 days or more. You will also be asked for a current utility bill. Your total benefit amount will depend, in part, on the cost of heating or cooling your home.

LIHEAP Eligibility – Am I Eligible?

Income guidelines for LIHEAP in Nevada are lower than most states, but the need for heating support is also lower due to the long, warm winters. Applicants must fall at or below 110% of the federal poverty line to qualify for Nevada LIHEAP.

Proper weatherization is crucial to cooling the home without air conditioning in during desert winters, so some utility companies work with residents to reduce energy costs naturally.