How to Apply for LIHEAP Heating Assistance in Maine
The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps eligible Maine households pay for heating fuel. Here's everything you need to know about qualifying, applying, and getting help with your heating costs.
What Is HEAP?
HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) is Maine's version of the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). It provides a one-time benefit to help pay heating costs for eligible households. The program is administered by MaineHousing through local Community Action Agencies.
Income Eligibility
Your gross household income must be at or below these limits:
| Household Size | Monthly Limit | Annual Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3,070 | $36,836 |
| 2 | $4,014 | $48,170 |
| 3 | $4,959 | $59,504 |
| 4 | $5,903 | $70,839 |
Benefit Amounts
- Minimum regular benefit: $88
- Maximum regular benefit: $1,012
- Emergency assistance (ECIP): up to $500
Your actual benefit depends on household income, size, fuel type, and heating costs. Benefits are paid directly to your fuel dealer or utility company.
How to Apply
- Find your local Community Action Agency (see table below) or call 211.
- Contact the agency to schedule an appointment or ask about walk-in hours.
- Gather your documents: proof of income for all household members, Social Security numbers, a recent heating bill or fuel delivery receipt, and proof of residency.
- Complete the application at your CAA office. Staff will help you fill it out.
- Wait for determination. You will be notified by mail of your benefit amount.
Community Action Agencies
Apply at the agency serving your county:
| Agency | Counties Served | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Aroostook County Action Program (ACAP) | Aroostook | 1-800-432-0006 |
| Community Concepts | Androscoggin, Oxford | 1-800-400-9596 |
| Downeast Community Partners | Hancock, Washington | 1-800-442-0400 |
| Kennebec Valley Community Action Program (KVCAP) | Kennebec, Somerset | 1-800-542-4358 |
| MaineStream Finance (formerly Penquis) | Penobscot, Piscataquis | 1-800-215-0070 |
| Mid-Maine Community Action (previously Kennebec Valley CAP) | Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo | 1-800-542-4358 |
| Opportunity Alliance | Cumberland | (207) 874-5804 |
| Penquis | Penobscot, Piscataquis | 1-800-215-0070 |
| Western Maine Community Action (WMCA) | Franklin | 1-800-645-2900 |
| York County Community Action (YCCAC) | York | 1-800-965-5762 |
Emergency Fuel Assistance (ECIP)
If you have a heating emergency (your tank is empty, you've received a disconnect notice, or your heating system has failed), you may qualify for the Emergency Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP).
- Provides up to $500 in emergency heating fuel or utility assistance
- Available to households that have already received their regular HEAP benefit
- Contact your local Community Action Agency immediately or call 211
Key Contacts
- MaineHousing: (800) 452-4668
- 211 Maine: Dial 211 (24/7 helpline)
- MaineHousing HEAP Info: mainehousing.org