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Learn About LIHEAP in Nevada

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program in Nevada is known simply as the Energy Assistance Program, or EAP. It helps low-income individuals and families pay for essential energy and utility bills. It is a federal program available in all 50 U.S. states, though each one may refer to the program by a different name. The utility assistance program is open to low-income homeowners and renters who need assistance in paying their home cooling, heating and energy bills.

To qualify for energy assistance, all candidates must prove that they meet the eligibility guidelines set by the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services. This includes having incomes that fall within the designated range. Only Nevada residents may apply for this program. Those who qualify for other assistance programs may be automatically eligible for the energy program.

Eligibility for the LIHEAP program in Nevada is determined during the application process. Program benefits and guidelines vary between states, so it is important that potential Nevada enrollees understand their state’s requirements. To learn more about the program, including all the program qualifications and specific benefits, continue reading the sections below.

Learn About Types of LIHEAP Energy Assistance in Nevada

Cooling and heating assistance in Nevada are provided through the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) under several different plans. There are three specialized programs available to low-income households. The program for which an applicant qualifies depends on his or her residence type, income, family size and energy costs.

Utility bill assistance for low income families is offered for households struggling to pay energy costs. Approved enrollees receive financial assistance to lower the cost of their heating and cooling bills. EAP benefits are paid directly to the energy provider, not to the applicant. The exact amount of benefits a household receives depends on their income and household size.

Those who meet the LIHEAP income guidelines may also be eligible for the EAP Fast Track Component, which speeds up the application process for families at risk of losing their energy source. In addition to meeting other criteria, low-income renters and homeowners must have experienced an unexpected loss or reduction of income during the last few months.

Some applicants may also be eligible for the Crisis Intervention Program, which provides financial assistance to families with a chronic or long-term illness. The state considers certain out-of-pocket medical expenses that lower the overall income, thus qualifying households for this program.

Another energy assistance program offered through Nevada’s EAP is the Arrearage Payment Component. Households with past-due heating or cooling bills may receive a one-time payment to cover these expenses. The program is designed to help applicants catch up on energy bills so they can continue making payments.

The Weatherization Assistance Program offered through the Division of Housing helps low-income homeowners and renters make their homes more energy efficient. Funds are used to seal cracks and install insulation.

Learn more about the types of LIHEAP programs in our free guide.

What are the Nevada LIHEAP requirements?

Nevada LIHEAP eligibility is determined by the Division of Welfare and Supportive Services. All applicants are held to certain guidelines to receive benefits. For example, the state sets certain income, residency, family size and payment guidelines to qualify for any of the EAP programs. The only way to determine eligibility for one or more of these programs is to submit an application. The state reviews all applications and supporting documents before approving or denying candidates.

There are many LIHEAP guidelines determined by the state. For example, candidates must prove they are primarily Nevada residents. Likewise, they must provide documentation of being a U.S. citizen. All enrollees must currently pay a utility company, fuel supplier or landlord for heating and/or cooling their home.

The state sets LIHEAP income guidelines that all applicants must meet in accordance with the size of their household. They must report all types of income during the application process. Income includes (but is not limited to):

  • Wages
  • Tips
  • Alimony
  • Unemployment benefits
  • Child support payments
  • Retirement money
  • Social Security benefits

 

How to Apply for LIHEAP in Nevada

You can find the Nevada LIHEAP application online, which you may print, complete and submit to the EAP office at your convenience. The application cannot be submitted electronically; you must print out a paper copy. To apply for LIHEAP, be sure to completely fill out the application and provide all required information. If your application is missing important information or is otherwise incomplete, your file will not be processed.

You may also apply for energy assistance in Nevada by picking up a paper application at one of the EAP offices around the state. Likewise, paper applications are available at any welfare office or intake site. If you need assistance with the application, visit an intake site. Officials can help you complete your application and mail it on your behalf to an EAP office.

If you need assistance with applying, it is best to call ahead and schedule an appointment. The offices get busy in peak season, so make an appointment to avoid long wait times.

You must submit a LIHEAP application form within three days of completing it. You will be asked to submit a variety of documents proving your household’s eligibility for the program. This includes:

  • Proof of residence (i.e. a rental agreement or mortgage)
  • Proof of identity for the head of the household (i.e. Social Security card or birth certificate)
  • Proof of income for everyone in the house (i.e. a W-2 or federal tax return)
  • Proof of citizenship
  • Copies of recent energy bills

Find out more about the LIHEAP application process by downloading our comprehensive guide.

 

How much could LIHEAP pay in Nevada?

Nevada LIHEAP benefits vary between applicants. The specific amount of financial assistance awarded through the program depends on several factors, including income, household size, type of fuel used and energy costs. Energy assistance benefits are paid directly to the fuel or energy supplier on behalf of the household. Coverage amounts are determined once the EAP office processes the application.

The LIHEAP program does not cover the entire cost of the energy bill. However, it does reduce it dramatically. The state determines the minimum and maximum coverage amounts allowed by the program. Currently, enrollees can expect to receive financial assistance in amounts anywhere from $180 to $1,584.

How can I check the status of my LIHEAP application?

After you apply for LIHEAP, you must wait for the state to process your file. Nevada state officials review all applications and supplemental documents to ensure that all applicants meet the program guidelines.

The LIHEAP application status is unavailable to candidates. Generally, it takes an average of 60 days to process an application. Certain households may qualify for an expedited review process, such as those with an elderly member, disabled member or member younger than 6 years of age. These are known as “targeted” households and receive a decision within 30 days of submitting an application. Applicants eligible for the Fast Track Component are at risk of losing their energy source. Thus, their applications are processed anywhere between 18 and 48 hours. Applicants curious about the status of their file may consider calling the office to inquire about the process.