LIHEAP funding continues to be lower than in previous years. This will mean that more households will be turning to local heating assistance programs after their LIHEAP money runs out. Here is a summary of the programs we know about - followed by information about how to access local programs.
NOTE: The Joe-4-Oil heating program for the 2018-19 heating season has not yet opened. Their website provides links to these additional statewide heating-realted resources for Maine.
Statewide Help
Apply for federally funded LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) at your local CAP agency. Many CAPS begin accepting applications on July 1.
Do you owe $500 or more to the electric company?
If you're behind on your electric bills, then the Arrearage Management Program (AMP) may be able to help you. This new program can help you wipe out what you owe. One of the requirements for this program is that you are enrolled in LIHEAP. Learn more about the Arrearage Management Program.
Other home energy-related programs
The USDA Rural Development office offers low-interest loans to qualified applicants through its Programs for Individual Homeowners. You can ask the USDA to help you to buy a new heating system, replace insulation, doors or windows, repair a foundation, or do many other types of repairs or upgrades, to make your home more energy efficient, or just more livable.
Find a listing of home energy-related Maine State Housing programs here.
Regional and Local Help
Read what the National Institutes of Health say about avoiding hypothermia - especially critical for older people.
Find the supplemental funds nearest you: To find the local resources nearest you, search Maine 211 for "fuel assistance." On a follow-up screen, you have the option of limiting your search by zip code. You can also try contacting your town office, or call 211 for a referral.
Know your home heating rights!
Learn more about your rights with this guide to Consumer Home Heating Rights from the Maine Attorney General's Office.
Did you know?
Even if you owe them money, an oil dealer can't refuse to deliver oil to you during the heating season (October 15th - April 30th) if:
- You have cash or government guaranteed payment for the oil
- The dealer normally delivers to your area, and
- You order at least 20 gallons
July, 2017
PTLA #783