Home Energy Assistance Program

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a public assistance program administered by the State of Ohio to help low-income residents manage the cost of home energy. The program is currently overseen by the Ohio Department of Development and will transition to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services beginning April 6, 2026, without any disruption in services or changes to the application process. HEAP is part of a broader network of energy assistance initiatives designed to ensure that vulnerable households can maintain safe and stable access to heating and utility services throughout the year. The primary objective of HEAP is to provide financial relief through a one-time annual benefit that is applied directly to a household’s utility or bulk fuel account. This structure ensures that funds are used exclusively for energy-related expenses and helps reduce the risk of service interruption. The program supports a variety of fuel sources including electricity, natural gas, propane, oil, kerosene, coal, and wood. The amount of assistance a household receives is not fixed and depends on several factors, such as household income, size, geographic location within Ohio, and the type of fuel used. Eligibility for HEAP is determined based on income thresholds and household composition. Households with eight or fewer members must have incomes at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, while households with nine or more members must fall within 60 percent of the state median income. Both renters and homeowners are eligible to apply. Applicants must report total gross household income for all members over the previous 30 days, although a 12-month income history is preferred. Income earned by dependent minors under the age of 18 is excluded from this calculation. The application process requires submission of a completed application form along with all required supporting documentation, including proof of income and utility account details. Applications may be submitted online or through local energy assistance providers, typically Community Action Agencies. All fields must be completed and signed to ensure processing, and incomplete submissions may delay review. Applicants are advised to retain copies of utility bills and documentation to facilitate accurate application completion. HEAP operates on a recurring seasonal cycle, with benefits typically applied beginning in January for approved applicants. While the program does not specify a strict annual application window, it functions as an ongoing assistance program aligned with seasonal energy needs. Applicants are encouraged to apply ahead of peak winter months to ensure timely processing, which may take up to 90 days. Additional related programs, such as the Winter Crisis Program and Summer Crisis Program, provide emergency support for households facing immediate energy challenges. Although federal funding levels supporting HEAP have decreased from temporary pandemic-era increases, the program continues to serve all eligible households under the same eligibility criteria. Benefit amounts may fluctuate depending on available funding and individual circumstances. Households participating in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan may receive adjusted HEAP benefits, reflecting coordination across assistance programs. For further assistance, applicants may contact the program via a toll-free phone number or connect with their local Community Action Agency. Additional information and application access are available through the state’s online energy assistance portal. HEAP remains a critical statewide program that supports energy affordability and helps ensure that Ohio residents can maintain safe and adequate home heating conditions.