The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), frequently known as fuel assistance, provides financial help to eligible low-income households by paying a portion of their winter heating bills. Aroostook County Action Program (ACAP) will continue to schedule interviews through April 30, and expects to take approximately 7,700 LIHEAP applications over the course of the 2011-12 season.
A household is eligible for LIHEAP if the total household income is less than or equal to 150 percent of Maine’s LIHEAP Income Guidelines for the number of persons living in the residence. A household is also eligible for LIHEAP under the 170 percent Maine LIHEAP Income Guidelines if a member of that household qualifies in one of the following categories — children under 24 months of age, adults 60 years of age or older, or with written confirmation from a physician that a person’s physical condition makes them vulnerable to the effects of hypothermia, a condition in which prolonged low temperatures threaten survival.
For households that exceed the income guidelines, medical expenses that have been paid by the household may be deducted from the gross income. Medical expenses include medical and dental insurance premiums, the cost of medications, dental work, eyeglasses and physician fees.
Persons that have not received a fuel assistance benefit since Oct. 1, 2011 and wish to schedule a LIHEAP interview in ACAP’s Presque Isle or Fort Kent offices (or obtain further information about this program) should call ACAP’s Community Services Department in Presque Isle at 1-800-585-3053 or 768-3053.
