INDIANAPOLIS — As of Oct. 1, 2-1-1 or IndyEAP.org will be able to assist the needy in getting home energy assistance. There, you can get more information or schedule an appointment at the closest provider of the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program’s maximum benefit is $395 a year and is paid directly to the utility provider.
Appointments, which are required to start the application process, will begin Nov. 3 at 25 locations throughout Marion County. New for 2014, all appointments must be prescheduled by either dialing 2-1-1 or going to the newly designed website: IndyEAP.org. Both options are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Those who received energy assistance in Marion County last year and who are elderly, disabled or have children under age 5 in the household will automatically be mailed an application packet. Anyone who is homebound, without transportation or internet access, can request that an application be mailed to them by dialing 2-1-1.
LIHEAP provides assistance to those at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level. For example, a four-person household making less than $35,775 or an individual with an income less than $17,505 would meet the income criteria. For details about income eligibility and documents required for the application, call 2-1-1 or visit IndyEAP.org.
Benefit amounts are based on household size and income, type of dwelling, renter or homeowner status, at-risk factors and the heating fuel source. Applicants must provide household, income, housing and utility verification.