Energy Assistance

Programs are available through the Human Resource Development Councils to help members with the cost of heating their homes during the winter months.

Programs are available through the Human Resource Development Councils to help members with the cost of heating their homes during the winter months.

What is LIHEAP?

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps low income individuals and families reduce their home heating costs.

Who is eligible?

Eligibility is based on your income and assets. You may not earn more than 60% of the state median income for households of up to 7 people. For households of 8 and over, you cannot make more than 150% of the federal poverty level. Income levels are available on the State of Montana website. You may apply whether you are a homeowner or a renter. Applications will be accepted during the heating season, which runs from October 1st through April 30th of each year.

How to Apply?

To request an application, contact the Lewistown office at (800) 766-3018 or 535-7488. Applications are also be available for download on the State of Montana website during the heating season. This is also an excellent source for further information on the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or you can contact HRDC at (800) 766-3018 or 535-7488 and they will be happy to answer your questions.

The following information is provided to assist you in the application process. Submitting an incomplete application or not submitting required documentation will only delay that process.

Documents you will need to include with your application:

Current heating bill.
Current electric bill if different from heating bill.
Income verification for ALL household members, regardless of age.
Current statement for all resources listed in section 7 of the LIHEAP application.
Copy of photo ID for all household members or birth certificate for household members under 18 years of age that don't have a photo ID.

Universal System Benefit Funds (USB Funds)

Funds may be available in certain cases in which a person may not qualify for other energy assistance programs.
An application for LIEAP must be completed before USB funds can be applied for.
Funds are available once a year for a heating bill or heating system repair/replacement.
Income guidelines are 150% of poverty.
Applications are taken in the Lewistown office (406) 535-7488 or (800) 766-3018.

Energy Share

Energy Share raises and distributes funds in the private sector to help people facing emergency situations with their energy costs.
Private donations are usually used in the area from which they came. For example, if you live in Lewistown and donate $100 to Energy Share, one hundred percent of that gift will be used in the Lewistown area to help someone in need.
In addition to raising and distributing contributions from individuals, Energy Share works with utilities and cooperatives around the state to implement low-income programs.
Energy Share is the last resort for heating emergencies only and is a once in a lifetime "match" program unless the money is repaid.
If it is during LIEAP season then you must apply for LIEAP prior to applying for Energy Share.
Applications are taken in the Lewistown office (406) 535-7488 or (800) 766-3018.
The Energy Share season is from September 1st to June 30th of each year.

Tips from HRDC to help you submit a complete application:

You must list ALL household members regardless of age or relationship.
You must provide income verification for ALL household members, regardless of age or relationship.
You must provide statements for ALL open bank accounts of ALL household members, regardless of the balance, or usage of the account.
ALL household members 16 years of age and older, must sign the application.
ALL sections of the application must be complete.
If you need assistance filling out the application or just have questions, please call HRDC at (406) 535-7488 or (800) 766-3018 and they will be happy to help.

Myth:

"They can't shut off my heat or lights in the winter!"

Fact:

- Utility companies regulated by the Montana Public Service Commission (PSC) are allowed to disconnect under certain circumstances, no matter what time of year it is.

- Companies not regulated by the PSC, such as electric cooperatives and propane distributors, have their own procedures and rules.

More information can be obtained through the PSC: (800) 646-6150 or visit their website (psc.mt.gov). We also encourage you to contact your energy provider and ask them what their disconnect rules and procedures are.

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