The Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program (HEAP Winter Crisis Program) helps income-eligible Ohioans that are threatened with disconnection, have been disconnected or have less than a 25 percent supply of bulk fuel in their tank maintain their utility service. The program runs from November 1 until May 1. Ohio households, serviced by a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio-regulated utility, must sign up for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP) or another payment plan in order to receive emergency benefits.

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Who is Eligible for the Winter Crisis Program?

Ohioans with a household income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines that are facing disconnection, have been disconnected or have less than a 25 percent supply of bulk fuel in their tank are eligible for the program.

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A household applying for HEAP must report total gross household income for the past 30 days (12 months preferred) for all members, except wage or salary income earned by dependent minors under 18 years old. Both homeowners and renters are eligible for assistance.

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How do I apply?

You can begin your application online at energyhelp.ohio.gov but will need to contact your local Energy Assistance Provider to complete your application. When you apply, you will need to complete the Energy Assistance Application (English or Spanish) and submit a copy of the following documents:

• copies of your most recent utility bills

• a list of all household members (include birth dates and Social Security numbers) and proof of income for everyone in the household over 18 years old for the last 30 days for each member (12 months preferred)

• Proof of citizenship or legal residency for all household members.

 

Please contact your local Energy Assistance Provider for a list of all required documents. Depending on your income type, additional forms may be required. Samples of the additional forms can be found by clicking here. 

Don’t forget to sign the application. Not signing the application will delay the application process.

If you’re applying by mail, send your application and required documents to:

HEAP
P.O. Box 1240
Columbus, Ohio 43216

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