WYOMING — The Wyoming Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP), which was paused in October due to the federal government shutdown, has been funded once again and is now approving qualified applications.
LIEAP is a federally funded program that administers financial support for winter heating bills, whether from natural gas, electricity, propane, coal, wood or other fuel types. According to a Monday news release, the Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS) has received $9.6 million from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to fund this winter’s program.
When the program was halted on Oct. 15, there were 1,168 households already approved, and those resources were unaffected. Last winter, LIEAP distributed $6.1 million to support 8,236 households in Wyoming.
With funding restored, applicants are being notified as to whether or not they are eligible for benefits. DFS is working to notify qualified applicants on how much assistance they will receive. LIEAP will continue to accept applications for this heating season until April 30, 2026. Applications can be submitted online or by calling (800) 246-4221.
Households must meet income requirements to qualify for benefits, which allow a maximum income of 60% of Wyoming’s median income. A four-person household must have an annual income of $68,902 or less. DFS states that priority is given to applicants with elderly members (age 60 and up), individuals with disabilities, and families with children under the age of five. Both homeowners and renters can apply.
LIEAP provides emergency assistance to address heating issues like a broken furnace, an empty fuel tank or a pending utility disconnection. The program also offers a one-time benefit payment for qualifying seasonal recipients who encounter unforeseen heating expenses.
