Summary
Millions of households may experience delays in receiving up to $1,000 in energy assistance due to a recent government shutdown. This assistance comes from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides help with home energy costs for low-income families. The delays affect several states, with funds expected to be available by December.
Key Facts
- LIHEAP provides financial help to low-income families for energy costs.
- The program is meant for heating, cooling bills, and crisis situations like utility shutoffs.
- The recent government shutdown has delayed LIHEAP payments.
- Payments were initially expected in early November but are now delayed until December.
- Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and Georgia reported funding delays.
- Some states expect funds to be available by mid-December.
- LIHEAP served 5.9 million people in the 2023 fiscal year.
- Eligibility is based on income, energy burden, and household vulnerability.
