The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Nebraska provides critical support for residents facing difficulties with heating, cooling, and utility bills. This program aims to help low-income households maintain safe and adequate energy services, especially during the extreme weather months. LIHEAP can assist with heating costs in the winter and cooling support in the summer, as well as addressing past due utility bills.
Eligibility for LIHEAP is primarily determined by household income and the number of members in your household. The program operates on specific application windows, with assistance available in the fall for heating and in the summer for cooling. Additionally, eligible individuals may also receive crisis assistance for urgent situations and referrals for weatherization services to improve energy efficiency in their homes.
Eligibility — who qualifies
To qualify for LIHEAP in Nebraska, households must meet certain income limits, which vary depending on the size of the household. Generally, families earning up to 150% of the federal poverty level are eligible. In some cases, households may also need to undergo an asset test to confirm qualification. This criteria ensures that assistance goes to those most in need.
Specific categories that can benefit from LIHEAP include elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and families with children under the age of 18. Additionally, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services administers this program, ensuring that those receiving benefits from other programs like SNAP, Heritage Health, and ADC may also qualify for energy assistance.
Understanding the application process and keeping track of eligibility requirements is essential. If you think you may qualify, it’s essential to apply during the designated application periods to ensure you can access these benefits when you need them most.
How to apply, step by step
Check eligibility
Review the income and household size requirements for LIHEAP in Nebraska. Confirm that you fall within the eligibility limits.
Gather documentation
Collect necessary documents, including proof of income, identification, and utility bills, to include with your application.
Find local assistance
Locate your nearest LIHEAP intake office or authorized community agency that can assist with your application.
Complete the application
Fill out the LIHEAP application form thoroughly. You can often do this online or in-person at designated locations.
Submit your application
Submit your completed application and all required documents to your local LIHEAP office before the deadline.
Follow up
Check the status of your application with your local office, and address any additional requests for information promptly.
Common mistakes & how to avoid them
⚠︎ Incomplete application
Fix: Make sure to fill out every section fully. Incomplete applications are often denied.
⚠︎ Missing documentation
Fix: Ensure you attach all required documents, such as proof of income and utility bills, to avoid delays.
⚠︎ Missing deadlines
Fix: Mark the application windows on your calendar to avoid submitting too late.
⚠︎ Not verifying eligibility
Fix: Double-check that your household meets the income and asset limits before applying.
⚠︎ Ignoring follow-up requests
Fix: Promptly respond to any requests from the LIHEAP office for additional information to keep your application moving.
Local resources in Nebraska
Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services
Statewide, visit their website to find your local office.
Community Action Partnership of Mid-Nebraska
Holdrege, NE - 308-995-6783
Nebraska Appleseed
Lincoln, NE - 402-438-8853
Salvation Army of Omaha
Omaha, NE - 402-346-6100
Nebraska Energy Assistance Program
Online access for all Nebraskans.
If you're denied — the appeal process
If your application for LIHEAP is denied, Nebraska residents have the right to appeal the decision. You can request a review by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services within 30 days of receiving your denial notice. Prepare to provide any additional information they may request to support your case. It’s essential to remain proactive and respond quickly to any communication from the department to strengthen your appeal.
How vehicle donations support this work
If you want to help support vital research that connects Nebraska residents with energy assistance programs, consider donating your vehicle to Great Plains Autos. Your donation not only helps fund this important work, but it also assists families in accessing the resources they need to maintain their energy services during critical times.