Heating Assistance

Need help during the cold winter?

DCP administers the federal Home Energy Assistance Program, which helps pay home heating costs in Washington and Hancock counties. If you need heating assistance, please call the number below.

HEAP (formerly LiHEAP) benefits are based on income comparisons with federal poverty levels. Please see the income chart below. The guidelines change annually; clients need to reapply every year. HEAP pays a portion of home heating costs but not all. Please see forms at the bottom of the page.

If you do not meet the income standards listed below, please call DCP as there are other ways we can help you.

The program began accepting phone calls and scheduling appointments on Monday, September 14th. Please call 1-800-828-7544.

Income Guidelines

Household Size        Monthly Income Limit

1.                                       $ 2,344
2.                                       $ 3,065
3.                                       $ 3,787
4.                                       $ 4,508
5.                                       $ 5,229
6.                                       $ 5,951
7.                                       $ 6,086
8.                                       $ 6,222
9.                                       $ 6,357

If you do not meet the income requirements, there are often other funding sources. Please call M-F 7:30 AM - 4 PM (207)664-2424 to learn more about the THAW fund.  

When HEAP benefits run out, a client may be eligible for ECIP. Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) funds supplement HEAP in emergencies.

To qualify for ECIP

• Below 1/8 tank of oil or about to be disconnected.
  
  This program can provide a minimum delivery not to exceed $400 in emergency heating assistance for life threatening situations. You can only receive this once a year, and must be a current and approved HEAP client.

To apply for these programs you must call to make an appointment. Applications can take up to 30 business days to be processed; it's important to call early. Please have the follow documents when you call.

• Current proof of income for everyone in your household
• A current electric bill
• Date of birth and social security cards for everyone in your household
• Current photo ID for main applicant
• The name of your energy dealer as well as your account number if you have one.

Telephone lines open on September 14, 2020 to make appointments.

Please call between 8 a.m. and noon, Monday through Friday 1-800-828-7544.

Documents & Forms

• Odd Job Income Worksheet ES (PDF)
• Permission to Share Personal Information ES (PDF)
• Primary Residency Self-Declaration ES (PDF)
• Self-Employment Worksheet ES (PDF)
• Subsidized Housing Form - Renters Who Pay Their Own Heating Costs ES (PDF)