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1. What is the low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP)?

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a federally-funded program that provides a one-time vendor payment to help eligible households pay their heating bills. Benefits are paid directly to energy providers who have an approved energy provider agreement on file with the county. Assistance towards your heating provider includes electric, gas, heating oil, coal, and/or wood. 

2. How do I apply for LIEAP?

• You may be automatically eligible if your households contained a person aged 60 or older, or an individual receiving disability benefits and services through the NC. Division of Aging and Adult Services, received LIEAP last year (2021/2022) and currently receives Food and Nutrition Benefits. You may call 910-798-3000 option 4 to obtain more information. 

All other households:  

• Beginning December 1, Households including a person aged 60 or older or disabled persons receiving services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services are eligible to sign up for assistance 
• All other households may apply from January 1^st – March 31^st or until funds are exhausted, whichever occurs first.   

•  Ways to apply:
  • Online at the ePass website
  • Phone by calling 910-798-3500, Option 4
  • Print and mail the application to 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
  • Print and fax the application to 910-798-7824
  • In person at 1650 Greenfield Street, Wilmington, NC  28401
  • Applications may be mailed upon request

3. How do I qualify?

There are several factors to be eligible, including gross income limits. 

4. If eligible, when will I receive a payment?

If eligible, the vendor that provides your heating source will receive a payment in 6-8 weeks from the time your application was approved. 

5. When are applications taken for LIEAP?

• You may be automatically eligible if your households contained a person aged 60 or older, or an individual receiving disability benefits and services through the NC. Division of Aging and Adult Services, received LIEAP last year (2021/2022) and currently receives Food and Nutrition Benefits. You may call 910-798-3000 option 4 to obtain more information. 

All other households:  

• Beginning December 1, Households including a person aged 60 or older or disabled persons receiving services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services are eligible to sign up for assistance 
• All other households may apply from January 1^st – March 31^st or until funds are exhausted, whichever occurs first.   

6. Who do I contact to inquire about LIEAP?

Contact the New Hanover County Department of Social Services by calling 910-798-3500 option 4.