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Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

WA Department of Commerce

Washington's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program is administered by the Department of Commerce through a network of community action agencies and local partners. Eligible households can receive a one-time heating (and now cooling) grant paid directly to the energy provider, help repairing or replacing an unsafe/inoperative heating or cooling unit, and a referral to Commerce's Weatherization Program for energy-efficiency upgrades. Heat source does not matter, electric, gas, propane, oil, coal, and wood are all eligible. Commerce does not determine eligibility or schedule appointments; the local LIHEAP provider does. RCW 19.405.120 separately requires investor-owned electric utilities to make low-income energy assistance programs and funding available; Commerce publishes a biennial Section 120 report on the statewide picture and is exploring a statewide monthly low-income energy bill assistance program design.

Who qualifies

Washington residents whose household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty level and who have not already received a LIHEAP grant during the current program year (Oct 1, Sep 30). Local providers make the final eligibility determination.

What it covers

Primarily a one-time heating grant paid directly to the energy utility (some cooling assistance now included). May also fund repair or replacement of unsafe, inoperative, or dysfunctional heating/cooling systems. Households are typically referred for free weatherization. Documentation required typically includes identity, residence, heat costs, and income.

Cost

Free to eligible households. Income limit set at 150% of the federal poverty level (2026 program year). Grant size depends on household size, income, and annual heat cost.

How to apply

Use Commerce's LIHEAP public map tool to find your county's local provider, then schedule an appointment with that agency. Each agency has its own scheduling process. Commerce does not schedule appointments or determine eligibility directly.

Where to get this in Washington

3 organizations deliver this program. Coverage varies, so check the area each one serves.

  • Coastal Community Action Program(360) 533-5100

    Community Action Agency for Grays Harbor and Pacific counties; runs the regional Senior Nutrition Program (Meals on Wheels and congregate meals) plus housing, energy, employment, and transportation services.

  • Lower Elwha Klallam Senior Services(360) 452-8471

    Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Elders Program offering nutrition coordination and meals from the Tribal Center Kitchen for enrolled elders.

  • Rural Resources Community Action(509) 684-3932

    Community Action Agency serving 12+ rural counties in eastern Washington since 1965. Runs the SAILS senior services department covering info & assistance, caregiver support, kinship care, SHIBA, senior nutrition, and tailored supports for older adults.

Apply online
www.commerce.wa.gov/community-opportunities/liheap/

Source www.commerce.wa.gov/community-opportunities/liheap/