Applications are now open for New Jersey’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides financial assistance to eligible households for home heating and medically necessary cooling costs.

Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2027, and will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis, while funding is available.

In a statement, the DCA encouraged eligible residents to apply as early as possible ahead of the winter heating season.

“DCA understands that energy costs can place a significant strain on household budgets, particularly as the colder months approach,” DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn Suárez said. “We encourage eligible New Jersey residents to apply for LIHEAP and learn about the other utility assistance programs available to help make their energy costs more manageable.”

LIHEAP is federally funded and is available to low-income families and individuals who are responsible for home heating or cooling costs, either directly or as part of their rent.

To qualify, households must have a gross income at or below 60% of the state median income.

The program can provide assistance with home heating expenses and medically necessary cooling costs for eligible households. Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2027, subject to available funding.

See the chart below for the income eligibility limits.

For household members greater than 12, add $246 for each additional member for monthly income limit and add $2,952 for each additional household member for annual income limit.

The amount of the LIHEAP heating benefit is determined by income, household size, fuel type, and heating region. The medically necessary cooling assistance benefit for FY 2027 is $300.

In addition to LIHEAP, DCA administers the Universal Service Fund (USF), which helps make natural gas and electric bills more affordable for eligible low-income households. The LIHEAP application also serves as an application for USF, allowing eligible households to apply for both programs through a single application.