LIHEAP income limits change by state and household size
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) sets income thresholds that determine whether your household can receive help. These limits are not the same everywhere — each state sets its own based on federal guidelines, and they shift annually. Your household size matters as much as your total income, because a family of four has a higher limit than a single person earning the same amount.
Most states use 150% of the federal poverty line as their cutoff, though some go higher or lower. This means a household at or below that percentage of the poverty line may be within range. You need to know your state's specific number before you contact your local LIHEAP office, because being over the limit in one state might put you under it in another.
Key Takeaways
- LIHEAP income limits vary by state and are based on federal poverty guidelines, so you must check your state's specific threshold rather than assuming a national number.
- Household size is factored into the limit — a family of four has a higher income ceiling than a single person, and each additional household member raises the threshold.
- Most states use 150% of the federal poverty line, but some states set their limits higher or lower, and a few have different thresholds for heating versus cooling assistance.
- Your state's LIHEAP office publishes current income limits each year, usually in the fall before the heating season begins.
- Income counted toward the limit typically includes wages, Social Security, unemployment, and child support, but rules about what counts vary slightly by state.
How to find your state's current income limit
Your state's LIHEAP office publishes income limits every year, usually before the heating season starts in October or November. The fastest way to find the number is to search "[your state] LIHEAP income limits" plus the current year, or call your state's energy assistance program directly. Many states post the limits on their Department of Human Services or Department of Energy website.
If you cannot find the number online, contact your local Community Action Agency — they administer LIHEAP in most areas and can tell you the limit for your household size in seconds. You can also call 211 (a national referral line) and ask them to connect you to your state's LIHEAP program; they will have the current thresholds.
What income counts toward the LIHEAP limit
LIHEAP counts most forms of household income, including wages, Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), unemployment benefits, child support, and pension payments. If you live with other people and share expenses, their income counts too — LIHEAP defines your household as everyone living with you who shares food or expenses, not just people related by blood or marriage.
Some income does not count. LIHEAP typically excludes student financial aid, tax refunds, and one-time payments like insurance settlements. A few states exclude child support or have special rules for foster children or elderly household members. Because these rules shift by state, ask your local LIHEAP office which income sources they will count when you contact them about your situation.
Income limits for heating versus cooling assistance
Most states run LIHEAP as a single program with one income limit year-round. However, some states split heating and cooling assistance into separate programs with different thresholds or different times of year when you can apply. A state might have a higher limit for winter heating assistance than for summer cooling help, or vice versa.
If you live in a state with separate heating and cooling programs, you may be over the limit for one but under it for the other. Your state's LIHEAP office will explain whether you have one program or two, and what the limits are for each. This matters because it changes when you can apply and what kind of help you might receive.
What happens if your income is slightly over the limit
If your household income is above the state's threshold, you will not be served by LIHEAP in most cases. However, a few states have a small window above the limit — sometimes called a "gross income limit" — where you might still be considered if other factors apply. This is rare and varies widely, so do not assume it exists in your state.
If you are over the limit, ask your local LIHEAP office whether there are any exceptions or alternative programs. Some states run separate energy assistance programs outside LIHEAP, or your utility company may offer its own low-income discount. Your Community Action Agency can point you toward other resources if LIHEAP is not an option.
How income limits connect to the rest of the application
Meeting the income limit is necessary but not enough on its own. You also need to show that you have a legitimate heating or cooling need — usually by providing a recent utility bill or lease showing you pay for energy. You will need to document your income with recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements, depending on your income source.
Some states also look at your assets or savings, though most focus primarily on income. If you are approved, the amount of help you receive may depend on your income level, your energy costs, and how much funding your state has available that year. The income limit determines whether you can apply; other factors determine how much you receive.
When income limits change and how to stay informed
LIHEAP income limits update once per year, usually in the fall. The federal poverty line (which most states use as their baseline) is adjusted each year by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and states recalculate their LIHEAP thresholds based on that change. The new limits typically take effect in October or November, at the start of the heating season.
If you were denied last year because your income was too high, it is worth checking again this year — the limit may have risen. Conversely, if you were approved last year, do not assume you will be this year without checking. Your state's LIHEAP office or your local Community Action Agency can tell you whether the limit has changed and whether your household's situation still fits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a national LIHEAP income limit, or does it really differ by state?
It really differs by state. The federal government sets a baseline (usually 150% of the poverty line), but each state can set its own limit higher or lower. You must check your specific state's number — you cannot use another state's limit or a national average.
If I live with my adult child, does their income count toward the LIHEAP limit?
Yes, if you share food or household expenses with them, their income counts. LIHEAP defines your household as everyone living with you who shares expenses, regardless of whether you are related. Tell your LIHEAP office about all household members and their income sources when you contact them.
What if my income changes after I apply — will I lose my benefits?
That depends on your state's rules and when the change happens. Most states check income at the time of application, so a small increase afterward may not affect current benefits. However, if you receive a large income increase or your circumstances change significantly, contact your LIHEAP office to report it rather than waiting for them to find out.
Can I apply for LIHEAP if I am unemployed and have no income?
Yes. Zero income is well below the limit, so unemployment does not disqualify you. You will need to document that you have no income — usually with a letter from your unemployment office or a statement that benefits have ended. Your LIHEAP office can tell you what proof they need.
Do I need to reapply every year, or does LIHEAP automatically renew?
Most states require you to apply each year, though a few offer automatic renewal if your circumstances have not changed. Check with your state's LIHEAP office about their renewal process. Even if renewal is automatic, it is a good idea to contact them before the heating season to confirm your application is active.