Arizona LIHEAP Assistance Program
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program designed to ensure that low-income households can pay their heating and cooling bills, minimize crises, and make energy costs more affordable. To qualify, a household must have an income that fits within the program guidelines. Priority for services is determined based on how vulnerable its members are. A higher priority can be granted if there is a senior citizen (60 years of age or older) in your household or if kids are present. Also, see the Arizona weatherization assistance program.
Program Availability
LIHEAP assistance is only available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is not guaranteed. LIHEAP eligibility is limited to receiving a Regular LIHEAP benefit only once in 12 months, and to receiving a Crisis LIHEAP benefit only once in 12 months.
If applicants cannot apply online through LIHEAP, they may be able to apply by phone through the LIHEAP hotline at 1-866 494-1981 or by submitting a paper application (see “FAQs for Applicants” section for links). Applicants who are unable to apply online may still be able to apply by phone through the LIHEAP hotline at 1-866 494-1981
A copy of the applicant’s current utility bill, a photo ID, a copy of the disconnection notice (if applicable), and proof of income will be required if the applicant wishes to seek utility assistance. Failure to provide the required documentation may result in the application being delayed.
Determining Income Eligibility
For purposes of determining whether an Arizona household is eligible to receive the LIHEAP, the following income is considered countable:
- Income from employment, including self-employment (includes wages, salaries, tips, etc.) as evidenced by a 1099 tax form or pay stubs
- Social Security benefits
- Income from Unemployment Insurance, including Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and Pandemic Unemployment Compensation
- All other consistent income received from other sources
How to Apply
If you’re looking to apply for the Arizona LIHEAPÂ Assistance Program, here’s what you need:
- Proof of income. This is a requirement for all household members above the age of 18. It includes:
- Most recent 30-day paystubs
- Social Security checks (if any)
- Current Pension/Retirement Benefit letter
- Unemployment Insurance statements
- Current Annuity Payment letter
- Statements from any other type of ongoing household income aside from TANF Cash Assistance or SNAP benefits
- Utility disconnection notice (if you have received a shut-off notice or delinquent notice from your energy company)
- Any utility subsidies
What if I am a Non-Citizen?
Qualified non-citizens include lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, parolees, aliens who have been in the United States for at least a year, aliens whose deportations have been withheld, aliens who have been granted conditional entry (before April 1, 1980), battered alien spouses, battered alien children, alien parents of battered children, alien children of battered parents who fulfill certain criteria, Cuban/Haitian entrants, and victims of severe forms of human trafficking are eligible for admission. More information about the status of qualified noncitizens can be found here.