Accepting Energy Assistance Applications for LIHEAP

Kentucky River Foothills Development Council, Inc. (KRFDC) will begin accepting applications for the Subsidy portion of their Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) on Tuesday, November 5. The agency encourages all potentially eligible or vulnerable households to apply as soon as possible. Applications will be accepted through December 20, 2024, or until funds are depleted.

Both homeowners and renters responsible for their heating bills who meet income guidelines are eligible to receive a one-time payment voucher. Individuals and households that have already received assistance this year may also qualify for additional support.

“Access to energy assistance is vital for many families, particularly during the colder months,” said Karen Atkins, public information officer at KRFDC. “Our goal is to ensure that every household knows there are resources available to help them stay warm and secure. This program not only supports our most vulnerable neighbors but also empowers them to explore additional resources, such as weatherization assistance, which can enhance their long-term energy efficiency and savings.”

The Fall Subsidy does not require a disconnect notice, a past due bill, or eviction notices. Benefits can be applied as a credit on the account, and prior assistance received during other LIHEAP components does not affect eligibility. The subsidy can be used for home heating costs, including electric, natural gas, propane, coal, wood, or fuel oil. Payments are made directly to the household’s fuel vendor.

To qualify for energy assistance, households must meet the following criteria:

• Completion of an application.
• Responsibility for home energy costs, directly or as part of their rent.
• Residency in Kentucky at the time of application and applying in the county of residence.

Applicants must provide:

• Photo identification.
• Proof of Social Security number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each household member.
• Proof of all household income from the preceding month.
• The most recent heating bill, verification from the landlord regarding heating costs included in rent, or a statement from the utility company verifying participation in a Pre-Pay Electric Program.
• Vendor information (including account number and name on account) for primary heating fuel and electric.

Income Guidelines for the 2023-2024 Program Year:

Household Size and Gross Monthly Income

1             $1,883
2             $2,555
3             $3,228
4             $3,900
5             $4,573
6             $5,245
7             $5,918
8             $6,590

For each additional family member above 8, add $673 to the monthly income limit.

To schedule an appointment, call 859-544-1713 or visit https://foothillscap.itfrontdesk.com. LIHEAP operates on an appointment-based system. For questions, please contact the Outreach Office in your area:

Clark Co: 859-744-3235, [email protected]
Estill Co: 606-723-4492, [email protected]
Madison Co: 859-623-6514, [email protected]
Powell Co: 606-663-2659, [email protected]

Residents outside KRFDC’s service region of Clark, Estill, Madison, and Powell counties can find their community action agency at https://www.capky.org/network/.

Kentucky’s Community Action Agencies operate LIHEAP in partnership with Community Action Kentucky and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, receiving funding as a pass-through block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more information about LIHEAP and contact details for all local Community Action agencies, please visit www.CAPKY.org.