The time frame for applications for a federally-funded program that helps during the winter months in Iowa is open for certain individuals.

New Opportunities Greene County Coordinator Teresa Lansman says the Low Income Heating Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) allows qualified households to receive a one time payment of, on average $400, to help with increasing costs for heat in the winter.

“It just kind of, is supposed to cover the rougher months. So if you’re used to paying $200 and you get a $300 it’s a huge shock. But LIHEAP covers that extra $100 so you can keep paying your normal $200.”   

Lansman notes that this program is based on the federal poverty level, with an example of a two person household must have a total gross income of $40,880 or less to qualify. She points out that normally the elderly and disabled can register for LIHEAP with a form from their home, but Lansman says this year people have to come into her office in Jefferson.

“We are starting a new (federal) government system and everyone has to come in and bring in their Social Security cards, along with their proof of income and their gas and electric bills. So we are scanning everything in this year. If there is a question about the Social Security cards there is a few other documentations, I just say give me a call and I will fill you in if you can’t find that.”      

Lansman explains that if someone qualifies, the gas and electric companies cannot disconnect that individual through April 1st. She recommends scheduling an appointment to apply for LIHEAP and that payments take about 90 days before the funds are deposited into an individual’s bank account, by calling 515-386-2719.