Electric Assistance Programs: Complete State-by-State Directory

Electric bill help is not the same in every state.

Most states use federal LIHEAP funding, but each state decides how applications work, when programs open, how much help is available, and which households get priority.

That means the best program for someone in California may look different from the best program for someone in Ohio, Texas, Florida, or Maine.

The fastest way to find help is to start with your state, then check your local utility company.

Start With Your State LIHEAP Office

LIHEAP is one of the main programs for electric bill assistance.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program can help eligible households with home energy bills, energy emergencies, weatherization, and minor energy-related home repairs.

To find your state program, use the official LIHEAP state and territory contact map from the Administration for Children and Families. You can also call the National Energy Assistance Referral hotline at 1-866-674-6327.

Before applying, check:

1. Application dates
2. Income limits
3. Required documents
4. Crisis assistance rules
5. Cooling assistance availability
6. Whether funds are still open

Some states accept applications for a season. Others close when funding runs out.

Why Programs Differ by State

LIHEAP is federally funded, but it is administered at the state, territory, tribal, or local level.

That is why one state may focus heavily on winter heating help, while another may offer cooling assistance during extreme heat. Some states prioritize shutoff notices. Others spread smaller benefits across more households.

Eligibility also varies. The LIHEAP Clearinghouse explains that state eligibility depends on household size, income, and other factors. Federal rules allow states to set income standards within national limits, but each state sets its own exact program rules.

Check Your Utility Company Too

Your electric company may have programs separate from LIHEAP.

These may include:

1. Low-income discounts
2. Budget billing
3. Payment plans
4. Hardship funds
5. Shutoff protection
6. Medical protection programs
7. Arrears management plans
8. Energy efficiency rebates

Call the number on your bill and ask for the customer assistance or hardship department. Do not only ask, “Can I get an extension?” Ask for every program available for low-income or hardship customers.

Some utility programs are year-round, while LIHEAP may be seasonal.

Look for State and Local Energy Programs

Some states and counties offer their own electric assistance programs in addition to LIHEAP.

These may be funded through state budgets, utility surcharges, public service commissions, or local emergency funds. In many areas, community action agencies help process applications for several programs at once.

Good places to check include:

1. State health and human services department
2. State energy office
3. Public utility commission
4. Community action agency
5. County assistance office
6. Local 211 service
7. Utility company website

If one office is out of funds, ask where else to apply.

Do Not Skip Weatherization

Weatherization does not always pay your current electric bill, but it can help lower future costs.

The Weatherization Assistance Program is run at the state and local level. DOE says applicants should contact their state weatherization administrator to apply.

Weatherization may include home energy improvements such as air sealing, insulation, heating or cooling system work, and other repairs that improve energy efficiency and safety. DOE says WAP reduces energy costs for low-income households by increasing home energy efficiency.

If your bills stay high every month, apply even if there is a waiting list.

Ask About Priority Help

Some households may receive faster or higher-priority help, depending on state rules.

This may include households with:

1. A shutoff notice
2. Older adults
3. Young children
4. People with disabilities
5. Serious medical needs
6. High energy costs compared with income
7. No heat or cooling during dangerous weather

If any of these apply, say so when you call. It may affect how your application is handled.

How to Use This as a State Directory

To find your state program, follow this order:

1. Use the official LIHEAP state contact map.
2. Call your local LIHEAP or community action agency.
3. Call your electric company and ask about hardship programs.
4. Call 211 for local emergency utility help.
5. Check your state weatherization office.
6. Ask whether crisis funds are open if you have a shutoff notice.

This gives you the best chance of finding both immediate bill help and longer-term savings.

Bottom Line

There is no one national electric assistance application that covers every program.

Start with your state LIHEAP office, then check your utility company, local community action agency, 211, and weatherization office. Your state and county decide what is available, so local contact information matters more than a generic national list.