Kentucky River Foothills to Offer Energy Assistance Starting November 9

Karen Atkins |

Kentucky River Foothills Development Council, Inc. (KRFDC) will begin accepting applications for the Subsidy component of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) on Monday, Nov. 9. The program will run through Dec. 18, 2026, or until funds are exhausted.

The agency encourages all eligible households to apply early to ensure they receive assistance before colder weather sets in. Both homeowners and renters responsible for heating costs may qualify for a one-time payment voucher. Individuals or households that have already received energy assistance this year may also be eligible for additional help.

“Winter can bring added financial pressure for families who are already working hard to make ends meet,” said Karen Atkins, public information officer at KRFDC. “LIHEAP provides much-needed relief by helping with heating costs, allowing households to put more of their limited resources toward other everyday necessities.”

The LIHEAP Subsidy component does not require a disconnect notice, a past-due bill, or eviction notice. Benefits are applied as a credit to the account, and previous LIHEAP assistance does not affect eligibility. Payments are made directly to the household’s heating fuel vendor and can cover electric, natural gas, propane, coal, wood, or fuel oil.

Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, households must:

  • Complete an application.
  • Be responsible for home energy costs, either directly or as part of rent.
  • Reside in Kentucky and apply in their county of residence.

Applicants must provide:

  • Photo identification.
  • Proof of Social Security number or Permanent Residence card for each household member.
  • Proof of all household income for the previous month.
  • The most recent heating bill, verification from the landlord if heat is 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 the account, for the primary heating fuel and electric.

Income Guidelines for the 2026-2027 Program Year
Household Size and Gross Monthly Income
1: $1,995
2: $2,705
3: $3,415
4: $4,125
5: $4,835
6: $5,545
7: $6,255
8: $6,965

Add $710 for each additional household member.

How to Apply
LIHEAP operates on an appointment-based system. To schedule an appointment, call 859-544-1713 or visit https://foothillscap.itfrontdesk.com

Residents outside KRFDC’s service region of Clark, Estill, Madison, and Powell counties can find their local Community Action Agency at https://www.capky.org/network/