LIHEAP is federal money given to each state to assist low-income families with energy costs. In Michigan, the LIHEAP block grant is used for the following programs:
- Home Heating Credit
- State Emergency Relief (SER)
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Home Heating Credit
Basic maintenance benefits for LIHEAP are issued through the Home Heating Credit to all low-income households. The Michigan Department of Treasury determines eligibility and makes the payments. You do not need to file a state income tax return to receive the Home Heating Credit. You may apply for the Home Heating Credit only. Eligibility is based on income, number of exemptions and household heating costs. For more information refer to the Home Heating Credit web site.
State Emergency Relief
The LIHEAP crisis intervention program is coordinated with Michigan’s State Emergency Relief (SER) program. SER provides a wide range of non-energy and energy-related emergency services. The cost for SER energy services is covered with LIHEAP, state and other federal funds. Services are provided year round.
The SER program is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS). An application is needed to request assistance and an appointment is generally required. To apply, please contact the local DHS office in the county in which you reside.
SER provides services such as payment for heating fuel, electricity and home repairs. Eligibility is based on:
- demonstration of immediate need (shut off notice), or
- declared need for a deliverable fuel such as fuel oil, or
- verified need for energy related home repair, and
- income, and
- assets.
For more information about the SER program refer to the State Emergency Relief web site.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)
Michigan’s Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federally funded, low-income residential energy conservation program. The program provides free home energy conservation services to low-income Michigan homeowners and renters. These services reduce energy use and lower utility bills, thus creating more self-sufficient households. Services are typically administered by local Community Action Agencies and include:
- Wall Insulation
- Attic Insulation and Ventilation
- Foundation Insulation
- Air Leakage Reduction
- Smoke Detectors
- Dryer Venting
Refer to the Weatherization web site for more information.
More Information About LIHEAP
For more information about LIHEAP, call the toll free DHS Energy Hotline at 1-800-292-5650 between the hours of 8:00 - 11:45 a.m. and 1:00 - 4:15 p.m. or visit the
LIHEAP web site.
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