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Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP and USF) | NJ Department Of Community Affairs (DCA)

101 S Broad St, Trenton, NJ 08625

Eligibility

LIHEAP: Both homeowners and tenants, who meet income requirements may apply for LIHEAP assistance. The amount of the LIHEAP heating benefit is determined by income, household size, fuel type, and heating region. Applicant household
  • must be responsible for home heating or cooling costs, either directly or included in the rent
  • have gross income at or below 60% of the NJ State Median Income level
USF: Applicant households
  • have gross income at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level
  • must pay more than 2% of its annual income for electric or more than 2% for natural gas
  • If a household has electric heat, it must spend more than 4% of its annual income on electricity
  • recipients must reside at the address provided on their utility account, and USF benefits will only be offered to the person/head of household listed on the utility account

Required documents

All necessary bills or debts, application/registration forms, current utility bills, driver's license, proof of home ownership/rental lease, proof of household income, rental/lease agreement, and Social Security card/number.

Hours

Website is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
609-376-0802, ext. 1
Voice·

Main Phone

Application process

Complete an application, which can be obtained by contacting the Application Agency or a downloading online. Completed applications should be returned in-person to the Application Agency, unless the applicant is over the age of 60, or a mail accommodation is otherwise granted. Call the application agency to set up an appointment.

Fees

None.

Service area

NJ

Assist low-income households in managing energy costs and maintaining safe, affordable utility service through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Universal Service Fund (USF).

LIHEAP Overview

Assists with heating and medically necessary cooling costs during designated program periods. Provides regular seasonal benefits and may offer emergency assistance for households facing shut-off or fuel shortages. Payments are typically made directly to the utility company or fuel supplier, ensuring continuity of service.Available to both homeowners and renters who meet income and residency requirements.

USF Overview

Offers monthly credits on electric and/or gas bills to reduce ongoing energy costs. Designed for households that spend a significant portion of their income on energy. Helps prevent service interruptions and promotes long-term affordability.

Providing organization

NJ Department Of Community Affairs (DCA)

Offers a variety of programs that can help you with rent/heating costs. This also includes the prevention of eviction, reduction of utility bills, and removal of lead hazards from your home.