Winter Heating Help for Older Ohioans

As temperatures begin to drop and heating bills rise, it is important to remember that Ohio has several energy assistance programs to assist low income Ohioans with paying their utility bills.

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a federally funded program to help low-income Ohioans by providing a one-time benefit annually to the consumer’s primary heating source account. For example, if you heat your home with a gas furnace, a credit will be provided to your gas bill. To receive this benefit, the applicant must be at or below 175% of the poverty level.

The Percentage of Payment Plan Plus (PIPP Plus) is a year-round extended payment arrangement that provides assistance with both electric and heating fuel bills. Persons at 150% of the poverty level who heat with gas pay only 6% of their gross monthly household income to their gas company and 6% to their electric company each month to maintain service. If they heat with electricity, they pay 10% of their monthly household income.

To apply for HEAP and PIPP Plus, click here to complete the Energy Assistance Programs Application 2019-2020 online, or click here to find your local energy assistance program provider for our region and visit in person. 

The Winter Crisis Program (WCP) provides a one-time benefit annually to your primary heating source account. The benefit can be used by eligible households that are disconnected (or have a pending disconnection notice), need to establish new services or pay to transfer service, or have 25% (or less) of bulk fuel. The program can also assist with fuel tank placement, furnace repair, and can provide funds for the purchase of electric heaters. Click here to find your local energy assistance program provider in our region to apply in person for the WCP.