LIHEAP Eligibility Calculator
| Household size ↓ · 2026 guideline → | 100% (federal guideline) | 150% (most states’ ceiling) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $15,960 | $23,940 |
| 2 people | $21,640 | $32,460 |
| 3 | $27,320 | $40,980 |
| 4 | $33,000 | $49,500 |
| 6 | $44,360 | $66,540 |
| 8+ | $55,720 | $83,580 |
Enter your household size and gross annual income. The calculator checks it against the 2026 federal poverty guidelines at 150 percent - the income ceiling most states use for LIHEAP home energy assistance.
Most states actually set the line at the greater of 150 percent of the federal guideline or 60 percent of state median income, so your state's limit can be higher than the federal ceiling shown here. Clearing the line is step one: actual awards also weigh crisis status, energy burden and the funding each state has left.
How to use
- Count everyone who shares the housing unit and income - children, seniors and other relatives included.
- Use gross income for the year, before taxes; the agency verifies against pay stubs or benefit award letters.
- The verdict updates live against the 150 percent ceiling for your household size, with the 110 percent federal floor shown alongside.
Frequently asked questions
What are the LIHEAP income limits for 2026?
The federal ceiling is 150 percent of the 2026 poverty guidelines: $23,940 for one person, $32,460 for two, $40,980 for three and $49,500 for four, adding $8,910 per extra member. States may set the line anywhere from 110 percent of the guideline up to whichever is higher, 150 percent or 60 percent of state median income.
How much money does LIHEAP give you?
There is no fixed check: each state runs a benefit matrix over household energy burden, fuel type and crisis status. A typical season benefit runs a few hundred dollars paid straight to the utility, while crisis assistance can cover a disconnect notice or a fuel delivery in full.
Can renters apply for LIHEAP?
Yes - renters and homeowners qualify on the same income rules, and tenants with their own utility account are the classic case. Apply with your state, territorial or Tribal LIHEAP office; the local community action agency usually takes the paperwork.
When should I apply?
Most states open in fall - October and November - and stay open until the money runs out, with crisis assistance running through winter. Applying early matters: the benefit matrix may shrink as funds deplete late in the season.
What is the difference between LIHEAP and budget billing?
LIHEAP shrinks the total you owe - the grant goes straight to the utility. Budget billing only spreads what you owe into even monthly pieces. They stack: the credit hits your account whether the rest of the bill is level-billed or not.