Energy assistance programs are throwing some seniors a lifeline this winter

Winter heating bills can feel like a monthly punch to the gut, especially when you're living on a fixed income. If you're among the millions of Americans struggling to keep up with rising energy costs, there's help available that you might not know about—and some of it puts money directly toward your overdue bills without you having to pay it back.

The good news? You're not alone in this struggle, and there are more assistance programs out there than ever before, with many specifically designed to help seniors first.

A nationwide safety net you should know about

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides support to roughly 6.7 million households nationwide.

It’s a federally funded initiative that helps reduce costs associated with home energy bills, energy crises, weatherization, and minor energy-related home repairs.

For many older adults, this program is particularly important because several states give application priority to households with members aged 60 or older.

In some regions, that means seniors can apply earlier than the general public each year, ensuring they get access to limited funds before they run out.

Eligibility for LIHEAP depends on income, but the limits are broader than many realize.

Depending on your state, you can qualify if your household income falls between 60% and 200% of federal poverty guidelines.

Also read: Relief is coming: How some eligible seniors can secure up to $150 in energy assistance this fall

Real programs offering real money right now

Let’s look at what’s happening in Maine.

Central Maine Power Co. and Versant Power both operate Arrearage Management Programs (AMP) that forgive up to $300 per month of past-due electricity bills.

Eligible participants must owe at least $500 that’s 90 days or more overdue, and they must also qualify for LIHEAP assistance.

Each month that participants pay their current energy bill on time, the program forgives one-twelfth of their outstanding balance—up to $300 per month.

That means someone who owes $1,200 could have their entire overdue balance cleared within a year, simply by staying current on new payments.

In Pennsylvania, the state’s LIHEAP grants range from around $200 to $1,000, depending on household size, income, and heating source.

Meanwhile, PECO’s Customer Relief Fund provides up to $500 credits for families earning between 151% and 300% of the federal poverty level.

This program focuses on those who may not qualify for traditional low-income aid but still struggle to keep up with energy costs.

Also read:Help with rising energy bills: See if your state offers relief

How to get started without getting scammed

Here’s something every senior should know: LIHEAP never charges application fees or gives out direct grants to individuals.

If someone calls, emails, or texts you claiming to offer a LIHEAP grant and asks for money, it’s a scam.

The legitimate way to apply is through your local Community Action Agency.

You can also get information by calling the National Energy Assistance Referral line at 1-866-674-6327 or visiting Energyhelp.us to find resources in your area.

What this means for your monthly budget

Recent surveys show just how serious the problem has become.

About 64% of Americans say their electric and gas bills have gone up compared to last year.

Nearly 63% say those bills are adding financial stress to their lives.

For seniors on fixed incomes, those increases can mean choosing between heating the house and paying for medication.

Programs like LIHEAP and AMP don’t just help—they can mean the difference between staying warm or going without heat during the coldest months.

Also read: A simple laundry change that could help cut household energy costs

Beyond the big programs: what else is out there

Many utility companies offer their own assistance programs in addition to federal ones.

These can include special rate discounts for seniors, budget billing plans that spread costs evenly through the year, emergency help for equipment repairs, and home weatherization services to make heating more efficient.

Contact your local utility provider directly to ask about senior-specific discounts and hardship programs.

You might be surprised how many options are available.

Also read: Unlock $200 savings this summer: Experts reveal 4 surprising perks of the “vampire solution” for your energy bills

Taking action before winter hits hard

Applying for energy assistance usually requires some paperwork, but don’t let that discourage you.

Most Community Action Agencies will help you fill out the forms and submit everything correctly.

You’ll typically need to bring photo identification, your Social Security card, proof of income such as Social Security or pension statements, recent energy bills, and a lease or mortgage statement to confirm residency.

Also read: Stop overpaying! AC experts reveal the costly mistake adding hundreds to your energy bill

Your next steps

Don’t wait until you get a shutoff notice to seek help.

Many of these programs have limited windows for application, and once funds are gone, they’re gone.

Start by calling your local Community Action Agency or visiting your utility company’s website to see what’s available in your area.

These programs exist because lawmakers recognize that energy costs have outpaced what many Americans can afford.

There’s no shame in applying for help—it’s a resource you’ve earned after decades of paying into the system.

Read next:

• If you get SNAP benefits, you could be missing out on these hidden freebies
• Protect your wallet: Millions of Americans could face sky-high energy bills—avoid a $727 shock
• Essential financial resources for seniors: 25 programs that can help

Key Takeaways

• LIHEAP assists more than 6 million households each year, offering help with heating, energy crises, and weatherization, with seniors often given early access.
• Maine’s Arrearage Management Program (AMP) can forgive up to $300 per month of past-due bills when participants pay current charges on time.
• Pennsylvania’s PECO Customer Relief Fund provides up to $500 credits for families earning between 151% and 300% of the federal poverty level.
• Applications are first-come, first-served, and legitimate programs never charge fees or offer cash grants—apply through your local Community Action Agency or at Energyhelp.us.

Have you used energy assistance programs, or do you have questions about qualifying for help with your utility bills? Share your experience or concerns in the comments below—your story might help another reader discover the assistance they need.