Ohio Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

Ohio’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps income eligible Ohioans pay their heating bills. The HEAP program provides a credit once per winter heating season towards a household’s primary heating source. ¹

Ohio offers several other energy assistance programs, including:

Summer Crisis Program

The Summer Crisis Program provides one-time assistance  to help eligible households stay safe during extreme summer heat.

This program may help with:

• Paying past-due or current electric utility bills
• Air conditioner repairs or replacements
• Fan purchases for households without adequate cooling

It is typically available to:

• Adults age 60 and older
• Households with a medical condition that makes them vulnerable to extreme heat

Assistance is usually available once per summer season, up to $800, subject to funding availability.

Winter Crisis Program

The Winter Crisis Program offers one-time emergency assistance to help households maintain heat during the winter months.

This program can help:

• Prevent utility disconnection
• Restore service after a shutoff
• Address low fuel supplies (such as propane, fuel oil, or bulk fuel)

The program is designed for households facing an immediate heating emergency and is generally available during the winter heating season. Assistance is up to $1,200.

Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP)

The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) is a year-round utility bill management program for income-eligible households.

Under PIPP:

• Households pay a set percentage of their income  toward gas and/or electric bills
• The utility bill is capped, making monthly costs more predictable
• Remaining balances may be credited or forgiven if the household stays current on payments

PIPP is especially helpful for families with ongoing affordability challenges, not just short-term emergencies.

Weatherization Assistance Program

Ohio’s Weatherization Assistance Program helps eligible residents reduce long-term energy costs by improving home energy efficiency.

Services may include:

• Insulation and air sealing
• Furnace or heating system repairs
• Energy efficiency upgrades that lower heating and cooling needs

This program focuses on permanent improvements rather than bill payment and can significantly reduce future utility expenses.

FAQ

What is the income limit for energy assistance in Ohio?

Eligibility for HEAP is limited to households with incomes at or below 175% of the federal poverty level or about $3,984 per month for a three-person household in Ohio.

How much is the HEAP benefit in Ohio?

HEAP benefits range from $24 to $441, depending on household income and energy costs. Priority is given to households with the highest needs or home energy costs in relation to their income.

Can I apply for HEAP online in Ohio?

You can submit your application online at energyhelp.ohio.gov  along with a copy of your most recent utility bills. The program runs from October 1, 2026 to May 31, 2027.

If you have received a disconnect notice, you should immediately contact your local HEAP provider for help applying for Emergency HEAP.

Ohio Department of Development
Office of Community Assistance
(800) 282-0880