Important note: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the deadline to submit HEAP winter crisis program applications was extended to June 1, 2020. Submit your application as soon as possible! Full program details are below.
Remaining comfortable at home during the winter is vital to the health and well-being of older adults and those with disabilities. But sometimes, paying the bills to keep to heat on can be difficult for those with low or modest incomes. Luckily the Home Engergy Assistance Program (HEAP) is available to offer help to those who qualify.
If you are eligible for assistance, the amount of your one-time HEAP benefit will depend on:
- federal funding levels,
- how many people live with you,
- total household income ($21,857.50/year for one household member and $29,592.50/year for a couple)
- and the primary fuel you use to heat your home.
You may check to see if you are eligible by using this online tool.
In most cases, the one-time benefit will be a credit applied to your energy bill by your utility company (or fuel vendor). The one-time benefit is typically credited in January depending on when an individual applies for assistance.
How to apply
Applications are available online and through a number of community organizations, including Community Action Agencies and Area Agencies on Aging (AAA). Council on Aging (COA) is the AAA for Butler, Clermont, Clinton, Hamilton and Warren counties.
Applications for winter heating assistance may be submitted any time from now through June 1, 2020.
Understanding eligibility requirements and completing and submitting benefit applications can be challenging for many older adults – especially those who are homebound. Working with our community partners, Council on Aging provides information and assistance to older adults and people with disabilities who wish to apply for the program. In-home assistance is also available. Older adults and people with disabilities who wish to apply for the program should call one of the numbers below, depending on where they live:
- Butler County:
- Partners In Prime (513) 867-1998
- Central Connections (513) 217-2481
- Clermont County:
- Clermont County Senior Services (513) 536-4015
- Clinton County:
- Clinton County Community Action Program (937) 382-1234
- Hamilton County:
- Council on Aging (513) 721-1025
- MARIELDERS, INC (513) 271-5588
- Warren County:
- Warren County Community Services 513-970-6737
For more information about HEAP, call the Ohio Development Services Agency at 1-800-282-0880 or 1-800-686-1557 (TDD line for hearing impaired clients), Monday-Friday, 7:30 am-5 pm.