A family of four that has an annual gross income of less than $42,525 can apply for heating energy assistance. According to the Iowa Department of Human Services, applicants must be at or below 175 of the 2016 federal poverty guidelines to qualify for the low-income heating energy assistance program, also known as LIHEAP. Applications are accepted on a first come, first serve basis beginning November 1st each year. Applications for Washington County can be completed with Hawkeye Area Community Action Program, or HACAP.

If you qualify for LIHEAP, you’re automatically eligible for the weatherization program services. This is a federal grant program aimed at reducing heating and cooling costs by improving energy efficiency of homes by doing things like installing insulation. To find out where to apply click here.