KENTUCKY — Kentuckians struggling to pay their utilities have new help available to them.
What You Need To Know
- Kentucky's Community Action Agencies are now accepting applications for the Crisis Component of LIHEAP
- Applications being accepted through March 31, 2021, or until funds are depleted on a first-come, first-serve basis
- Applicants must have a household income at/below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, among other qualifications
- People can also apply if they have a late or overdue amount, or if they are on an arrearage payment plan
Kentucky's Community Action Agencies are now accepting applications for the Crisis Component of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) through March 31, 2021, or until funds are depleted on a first-come, first-serve basis.
“Many Kentuckians are still struggling from the financial hardships stemming from COVID-19, making the need for LIHEAP even greater this year,” said Executive Director of Community Action Kentucky Roger McCann. “We actively encourage anyone that meets the eligibility requirements of the LIHEAP Crisis Component to reach out to their local Community Action Agency as soon as possible to apply.”
People who apply must meet several qualifications. Applicants must have a household income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, and the applicant must have received a "disconnect" notice from their utility company or be within four days of running out of a non-metered fuel like propane.
People can also apply if they have a late or overdue amount, or if they are on an arrearage payment plan.
Applicants must also be responsible for home heating costs or pay heating costs as an undesignated portion of rent. Those who participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program are eligible if they are within 10 days of running out of pre-paid electric services.
Those who meet the qualifications can apply at their local Community Action Agency, which can be located by calling 800-456-3452.
Crisis Component benefits are limited to the amount needed to relieve the crisis without the maximum amount exceeding the Community Action Agency's local cost for a deliverable supply of the household's primary heating fuel or $400 for gas or electric. Until a household has reached its maximum benefit, it can reapply each time it experiences a crisis.
Relief will be provided within 48 hours, or 18 hours if an emergency, and make take the form of fuel deliveries, service reconnection, blankets or sleeping bags, loan of space heaters, and emergency shelter.
Community Action Agencies may provide special accommodations, adjust locations and times, and may ask that LIHEAP applicants follow safety protocols.