LIHEAP Eligibility & How To Apply
To receive help from LIHEAP...
Households must be at or below 60% of Rhode Island's Median Income Levels that are set each program year. See the current guidelines here.
- You don't have to be on public assistance
- You don't need to have an unpaid heating bill
- You can either rent or own your home
Application Process
DHS administers the program, but applications are taken at local Community Action Program (CAP) agencies. Your local CAP agency will walk you through the application process, but below are some important points:
- In most cases, applications are taken from September through May each year.
- New applicants should apply in person.
- CAP agencies provide convenient, safe intake locations and will arrange for older adults or disabled individuals to apply at an intake site.
- Applicants who received heating assistance benefits the prior year will usually be mailed the application renewal forms by the CAP agency. Please be sure to update your address with your CAP agency if necessary.
Learn more and how to apply by contacting your local Community Action Program agency.
Online Application
Customers now have the option to apply online here! In order to create an account, you will need to verify your email address within 30 minutes or you'll need to restart the process. Once your account is verified, you can return to completing an application. You can learn more about this process or apply directly through your local Community Action Agency.
LIHEAP Decision Appeals Process
Applicants have the right to appeal a decision that denies benefits. If you do not agree with the decision, you have 15 days from the receipt of the denial letter to submit an appeal. Anyone seeking an appeal must fill out and submit the First Appeal Request Form. Additional appeal instructions can be found within the form.