Energy bill assistance available for Ohio residents

OHIO — The Ohio Department of Development and Bridges Community Action are reminding older Ohioans about the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), designed to help eligible residents manage their heating costs.

HEAP provides financial assistance to households at or below 175% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (for up to seven household members) or 60% of the State Median Income (for households with eight or more members).

The benefit is applied directly to utility or bulk fuel bills to offset heating costs.

Older Ohioans can receive assistance with the application process at their local Area Agency on Aging or by visiting www.energyhelp.ohio.gov to apply online or download an application.

Required Documents for HEAP Application:

• Most recent utility bills
• List of all household members (including birth dates and Social Security numbers)
• Proof of income for the past 30 days for all household members (or 12 months for certain income types)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency for all household members
• Proof of disability (if applicable)

Applications must be submitted by May 31, 2025, and benefits will be applied to energy bills after January 1.

For additional help with applying, contact Bridges Community Action at 937-404-9203.

To connect with your local Energy Assistance Provider, call (800) 282-0880 or dial 711 for hearing-impaired assistance.

More information is available at www.energyhelp.ohio.gov.