Energy assistance programs available for those in need
Published 7:54 pm Thursday, January 5, 2023
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The Dare County Department of Health and Human Services has announced that applications are being accepted for two programs: Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) and the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP).
Households can now apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) online at epass.nc.gov. “This helps make it easy and convenient to apply for this program in a safe and socially distant way,” stated the DCDHHS announcement. “If you receive other public assistance benefits, EPASS is a convenient way to update your address and telephone number.”
Applicants can also print a paper application from epass.nc.gov or pick up a paper application to mail, fax or drop off at the DCDHHS – Social Services Division offices in Manteo or Frisco or call to apply by phone.
LIEAP applications will be accepted until March 31, 2023 or until funds are exhausted. To be eligible for the LIEAP program, a household must:
- Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria
- Have income equal to or less than 130% of the federal poverty limit
- Have resources, such as saving and checking accounts and cash on hand, at or below $2,250
- Be responsible for their heating cost
Crisis Intervention applications will be accepted until June 30, 2023 or until funds are exhausted. To be eligible for the CIP program, a household must:
- Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria
- Meet the income test
- Have an energy related crisis
- Have a utility statement that shows how much is owed to alleviate the crisis
- Must have a health-related or life-threatening emergency
For more information on the energy programs and eligibility, visit the CIP website at bit.ly/3vffdT3 and LIEAP website at bit.ly/3YO5q3M.
“Dare County Department of Health & Human Services strongly encourages families to take advantage of all the new ways to apply for assistance programs,” stated the announcement.
For more information, call 252-475-5500.
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