Vermont Seasonal Fuel Assistance (“LIHEAP”) is a state program that can help pay part of your home heating bills whether you own your home or rent, and whether you pay for heat directly or as part of your rent.
You may be eligible if your gross household income is equal to or less than 185% of the federal poverty level, based on household size — regardless of the other resources (savings, retirement accounts, property) you may own.
The program works with almost 150 fuel suppliers across the state, and covers home heating systems using oil, kerosene, propane, natural gas, coal, electric and even wood. It is best to apply in the spring or summer for the following heating season. Funding decisions are made in the early fall, and funds will be sent directly to your account at your fuel supplier for the winter.
Call the Senior Solutions HelpLine at 802-885-2669 for an application and assistance.
Crisis Fuel Assistance can help you with a heating crisis during the winter months (generally the end of November through early April.) If your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and you are experiencing a crisis (e.g., you are out of fuel or very close to running out of fuel and have no funds to buy more), this program may be able to help. If you’re eligible, Crisis Fuel Assistance may help you to:
- Purchase the primary source of your heat (e.g., electricity, kerosene, natural gas, oil, propane, or wood)
- Purchase electricity if it’s required to run your heating system
- Have your furnace repaired or replaced
- Negotiate payment plans
- Work with your electric or natural gas company to prevent disconnection
Do not wait until you have completely run out of fuel to apply as fuel dealers often charge a special trip fee for emergency deliveries. The program will not cover you if fuel has already been delivered or the furnace work has been completed.
This program is handled directly by Southeastern Vermont Community Action (SEVCA) if seniors would like to contact them directly.
Green Mountain Power Energy Assistance
You may be eligible for a 25% discount off the monthly charges for the energy you use, as well as forgiveness if you’re new to the program and owe on a past bill. To be eligible, you must be a residential customer of Green Mountain Power and have a total gross monthly household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level.
Call the Senior Solutions HelpLine at 802-885-2669, and we can send you an application.
