Texas LIHEAP (CEAP) in 2026: How to Get Help With Energy Bills
- In Texas, LIHEAP is delivered as CEAP through local agencies.
- It helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills.
- Summer cooling help matters in the Texas heat.
- Apply through your local community action agency – it is free.
In Texas, the federal LIHEAP program is delivered as the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) through local agencies. It helps low-income Texans pay energy bills and stay safe in extreme heat and cold. Here is how to get help in 2026.
What CEAP / LIHEAP covers
CEAP can help pay electric and other energy bills, assist during an energy crisis (such as a shutoff notice), and in many areas help with cooling in summer and heating in winter. Because Texas summers are dangerous, cooling assistance is a key part of the program. See the national how to apply for LIHEAP guide and the broader utility assistance guide.
Who is eligible
Eligibility is based on household income and size and Texas program rules. Households with a member who is elderly, has a disability, or is a young child are often prioritized. Confirm the current income limits at the official source below.
How to apply in Texas
- Find your local CEAP provider – CEAP is run by local community action agencies, not a single state office.
- Contact the agency for an application and its document list.
- Submit proof of income, ID, household size, and a recent energy bill.
- If you have a shutoff notice, say so – crisis help may be faster.
Applying is free – never pay a third party.
Prepare for the documents
Bring proof of income for everyone in the household, a photo ID, Social Security numbers, and your most recent utility bills. If a shutoff is looming, also see how to stop a utility shutoff and help with a past-due electric bill.
Summer cooling in Texas
With extreme heat, ask specifically about cooling assistance – help with electric bills and, in some areas, fans or air conditioners. See cooling assistance for summer electric bills. Many areas also protect against summer shutoffs during heat advisories.
Lower future bills
Ask about the Weatherization Assistance Program to make your home more efficient, and if your water bill is high, help paying your water bill. Seniors can review the benefits overview for seniors.
What to do next
Find your local CEAP community action agency, gather your income and bill documents, and apply early – especially before summer cooling funds run low. Dial 2-1-1 to locate your provider.
Official source
Learn about CEAP and find your local provider through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs at tdhca.texas.gov/community-affairs/ceap and the federal program at acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/liheap. Applying is free.
Frequently asked questions
What is CEAP?
CEAP (Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program) is how Texas delivers federal LIHEAP energy-bill help, run through local community action agencies.
Does Texas LIHEAP help with summer cooling?
Yes. Because of extreme heat, CEAP often helps with summer electric/cooling bills and, in some areas, cooling equipment. Ask your local agency and apply early.
Where do I apply in Texas?
Through your local community action agency (CEAP provider), not a single state office. Dial 2-1-1 or use the TDHCA locator. Applying is free.
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.