Don’t Suffer in the Cold

Winter is coming and if you are worried about paying your heat bill, AARP Wyoming wants you to know that help is available.

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program will accept applications beginning Sept. 1. The program, also called LIEAP (lee-ap) helps pay home heating bills October-May in Wyoming.

Last year, thousands of families and elders were helped with the program, which is federally funded. A single person with a gross income of $1,893 a month or $22,710 a year qualifies for LIEAP, as does a couple earning $2,475 a month or $29,698 annually. Learn more about the income qualifications online today.

To get an application, ask your utility company, visit your local senior center or local Wyoming Department of Family Services' office. If you would like DFS to mail you an application, or if you have any questions about LIEAP, please call 1-800-457-3659 or 307-777-7564.

While people can apply anytime before Feb. 28, 2010, for most it makes sense to apply sooner rather than later.

The LIEAP application is also used to determine if you are eligible for the state’s energy efficiency improvement program known as Weatherization.

This program, which uses the same income qualifying guidelines as LIEAP, brings certified weatherization specialists into homes to look at gaps and air loss leaks, heaters and other appliances to assess a home's efficiency and find ways to save money on monthly utility bills. Licensed contractors complete the necessary work to make your home more energy efficient and less expensive to heat. These services are free to those who qualify.

The program is available to homeowners as well as renters.

AARP Wyoming has successfully advocated for additional state money for the LIEAP and Weatherization programs for many years. We encourage you to apply for both services. Don’t suffer in the cold this winter. Help is available.