ENERGY ASSISTANCE
We process applications in the order received.
We are currently processing applications received September 20.
We will not be returning phone calls that are checking on the status of applications. Thank you for your patience.
Energy Assistance Program
If you are experiencing difficulty paying your heating and electric costs, the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) may be able to help you. BI-CAP has three programs that serve households with different needs.
PRIMARY HEAT: Heating assistance is available to households who rent or own, whose income is at or below 60 percent of the state median income. The assistance you receive pays a portion of home energy and heating costs. Grants are based on household size, gross income, and the previous year’s energy costs. Grants are paid directly to your energy providers.
CRISIS PROGRAM: Households experiencing a heating or electric emergency may be eligible for additional crisis assistance. You must be approved for energy assistance and a primary heat grant does not resolve the situation.
ENERGY RELATED REPAIR (ERR): ERR funds are available to homeowners experiencing a life threatening situation or a no-heat emergency due to a malfunctioning or nonfunctioning heating system. You must be approved for energy assistance to qualify for this program. Proof of ownership is required.
Energy Assistance Program Makes a Difference
“Absolutely needed it to get back on my feet and helped my family out extremely. Without it, I wouldn’t be able to move into my new place. I thank you very much.”
Energy Assistance Program Facts:
The Energy Assistance Program runs from October 1 to May 31.
- Renters and homeowners are eligible.
- Energy Assistance is free for eligible households.
- Eligibility is on a sliding scale based on household size and the most recent one month of household income.
- Payments for energy bills are sent directly to the household’s energy company or delivered fuel provider.
- In addition to the initial grant, additional Crisis funds are available to:
- Help pay a past due bill, prevent a disconnect, reconnect service if disconnected, or get an emergency fuel delivery.
- Help homeowners get their nonfunctioning furnace repaired or replaced.
Additional forms that may be requested for your Energy Assistance Application.
Verification of Income and Expenses: For households with no or insufficient income. Fill out for the month prior to signing the application.
Affidavit Declaring a Change of Income: For individuals that have had a change in their jobs in the last 6 months.
*Please note: Both forms require a signature, it my be easier for many people to print them prior to filling out.*
How has Energy Assistance helped you?
“This program is VERY helpful to me and my family. This program has been here for my family when unexpected expenses came up and I had no financial means for a propane fill.”
