New Jersey residents who need help paying home heating costs can now apply for the state’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP, for the 2026–27 season.
The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs announced that applications opened on October 1, 2026, and will remain open through June 30, 2027, while funding is available. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and state officials are encouraging eligible residents to apply as early as possible.
Help With Heating and Medically Necessary Cooling
LIHEAP helps eligible households cover home heating expenses and, in certain cases, medically necessary cooling costs.
For the 2027 federal fiscal year, the medically necessary cooling benefit is $300.
Households may qualify whether they pay heating costs directly or whether those costs are included in their rent.
Who Can Qualify
To qualify, a household generally must be responsible for home heating or cooling costs and have gross income at or below 60% of New Jersey’s State Median Income.
For the 2026–27 season, the annual income limits include:
- 1 person: $51,273
- 2 people: $67,049
- 3 people: $82,825
- 4 people: $98,602
- 5 people: $114,378
Higher limits apply to larger households.
One Application Can Cover Two Programs
The LIHEAP application also serves as an application for New Jersey’s Universal Service Fund, or USF.
USF helps eligible low-income households make natural gas and electric bills more affordable. A household may qualify for benefits from both LIHEAP and USF at the same time.
USF assistance is based in part on household income and energy costs and can provide credits toward qualifying utility bills.
How to Apply
Residents can apply online through New Jersey’s Energy Assistance portal or contact an authorized local agency in their county for help with the application process.
Residents who are 60 or older or have a disability may also be able to submit applications by mail or request a home visit from the local agency if needed.
For additional information or help locating a local application agency, residents can call 1-800-510-3102.
With colder weather approaching, DCA Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez said energy costs can put significant pressure on household budgets and encouraged eligible residents not to wait to apply.
Sources: New Jersey Department of Community Affairs; WRNJ Radio
By NJ RADAR Team