Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Am I eligible for LIHEAP?

You might be eligible for a utility assistance grant through LIHEAP if you are an economically disadvantaged resident of Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester County. LIHEAP determines income eligibility based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Since every family’s situation is unique, we assess each one on an individual basis. LIHEAP evaluates income differently than many other federally funded programs, so it is important to let us determine your eligibility rather than making assumptions about whether you qualify. LIHEAP program participants may receive assistance twice per year when funds are available.

What services are available?

LIHEAP is primarily used to assist households with a utility assistance grant made directly to the energy provider.

Where do I apply for LIHEAP?

Unfortunately, we cannot take walk-ins. To apply for LIHEAP, you must schedule an appointment by phone or via our website. To schedule an appointment, please call 1-844-769-6448 or visit the Schedule An Appointment section of this site.

How often can I apply for LIHEAP?

You can apply for a LIHEAP utility assistance grant twice per calendar year and not within 30 days of receiving assistance.

Does it matter what my heat source is?

It does not matter what your heat source is. Our program awards energy assistance grants regardless of fuel type. We assist households with electric, gas, propane, oil, coal, and wood.

Do I need to provide documentation?

Yes. The following documents must be presented to staff to complete an application for a LIHEAP utility assistance grant.  Failing to present a required document will result in an incomplete application.  Incomplete applications will be voided and assistance will be denied.

All clients must:

– Be residents of Berkeley, Charleston, or Dorchester County

– Meet federal income guidelines

– Present a SC-issued picture ID with current address for applicant

– Present legible social security cards for all household members

– Present total income for all household members within the past 30 days prior to application

– Provide 3 most recent energy bills

Names must match on all documents. Palmetto CAP cannot assist if the account has a credit or zero balance.

Disclaimer

This website is supported by Grant Numbers 93.569 (Community Services Block Grant) and 93.568 (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) from the Office of Community Services and the Office of Head Start within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families, or the Office of Community Services.