Cooling Assistance in 2026: Help With Summer Electric Bills
Quick Summary
- Apply through your state or local LIHEAP office.
- Helps pay heating and cooling energy bills.
- Have a recent utility bill and proof of income ready.
- Crisis help may be available for shutoffs.
- Use official government sites only.
What are you trying to do?
When summer heat drives up electric bills, several programs help low-income households stay cool and keep the power on. Here is how to get cooling assistance in 2026.
LIHEAP cooling help
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps with home energy costs, and many states offer a cooling component in summer – help paying electric bills, and in some states fans, air conditioners, or AC repair. Programs and timing vary by state, so apply as early as you can. Start with how to apply for LIHEAP and the utility assistance guide.
Ask your utility company
Utilities often have summer programs and protections:
- Payment plans and budget billing to spread costs.
- Hardship or bill-assistance funds.
- Medical protections if someone in the home relies on cooling for health reasons.
If you are behind, see help with a past-due electric bill and how to stop a utility shutoff.
Heat shutoff protections
Many states limit or ban electric shutoffs during extreme heat or heat advisories, and some protect households with medical needs. If you get a shutoff notice in summer, contact your utility immediately, tell them you have applied for LIHEAP, and ask about heat protections.
Lower your bills long-term
- The Weatherization Assistance Program can add insulation and improve efficiency to cut future cooling costs.
- If your water bill is also high, see help paying your water bill.
Stay safe in the heat
Beyond bills, ask about local cooling centers (libraries, community centers) during heat waves, and check on older neighbors. Dial 2-1-1 for local cooling programs and emergency help. Seniors and people with medical needs should review the benefits overview for seniors.
Tips
- Apply early – summer cooling funds are limited and can run out.
- Get a doctor note if cooling is medically necessary; it can unlock extra help and protections.
- Keep confirmation numbers from your utility and the LIHEAP office.
- Combine LIHEAP + Weatherization to fix the bill now and lower it later.
What to do next
If summer electric bills are unaffordable, apply for LIHEAP cooling help now, call your utility about protections and a payment plan, and ask 2-1-1 about local cooling programs.
Official sources
Find LIHEAP and cooling help through the Office of Community Services at acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/liheap. Applying is free.
Frequently asked questions
Does LIHEAP help in the summer?
In many states, yes. LIHEAP often includes a cooling component that helps with summer electric bills and sometimes cooling equipment. Availability and timing vary by state – apply early.
Can my power be shut off during a heat wave?
Many states restrict summer shutoffs during extreme heat or for households with medical needs. Contact your utility right away, mention any LIHEAP application, and ask about heat protections.
Where do I apply?
Through your state or local LIHEAP office (often a community action agency). Dial 2-1-1 to find it. Applying is free – never pay a third party.
What to Do Next
Ready to act? Applying, checking status, and getting help are free through the official agency – you never pay a third party. Gather what you need, apply or respond early, and keep copies of everything you submit.
Official links to apply & check status
LIHEAP – ACF (HHS)
Official energy assistance programGOV SITE ↗
Find your state LIHEAP office
Apply through your state or tribeGOV SITE ↗
Benefits.gov
Check what you may be eligible for
These are official government sites. Links open in a new tab. GlobalBenefits.org is not a government agency and does not process applications.
Reviewed for accuracy · Updated July 13, 2026 · Based on official government sources.
Your next steps for cooling help
Cooling help is delivered through your state LIHEAP office. Continue here:
- LIHEAP energy assistance guide (2026) — how to apply for cooling and heating help.
- Benefits Finder — see other assistance you may qualify for.
- Apply & Manage Benefits — your state’s official application site.