Indiana LIHEAP 2026: The Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
In Indiana, LIHEAP is called the Energy Assistance Program and is run by the state housing authority through a Community Action Agency in every county, paired with a winter disconnection moratorium.
Quick answer
To apply for LIHEAP in Indiana: Indiana runs LIHEAP as the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and local providers. Apply through your local EAP service provider. Applying is free through the official agency.
How LIHEAP works in Indiana
Indiana calls its LIHEAP the Energy Assistance Program (EAP), administered by the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and delivered through Local Service Providers — Community Action Agencies with an outreach office in every county. Apply online, by mail, or in person through your provider; see the state’s Energy Assistance Program page.
The program covers heating, electric-bill, and crisis assistance for households at risk of disconnection, plus summer cooling help. Approved households are also protected by Indiana’s winter utility-disconnection moratorium, which runs from December 1 to March 15.
What LIHEAP is, who is eligible, and what it can pay toward are federal — those are covered in how to apply for LIHEAP. What is state-specific is the program’s name, who runs it, and where you apply.
What this program helps with
LIHEAP (the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills, and can help in an energy emergency such as a shut-off notice or being low on fuel. Some areas also offer weatherization to make a home more energy efficient.
Who may qualify
Eligibility is based on household income and size, and the rules and income limits vary by state. Many states also automatically qualify households that already receive SNAP, TANF, or certain other benefits. Funding is limited and the program has seasonal open and close dates, so apply early. Confirm the current income limits and dates on the official state site.
How to apply or manage benefits
Indiana runs LIHEAP as the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and local providers. Apply through your local EAP service provider. You can usually start online, by phone, or in person, and a local office finalizes your application.
Documents you may need
Have ready: photo ID, Social Security numbers for the household, proof of income for everyone in the home, a recent energy or utility bill, and any shut-off or past-due notice. Bring copies and keep your originals.
What to expect
Applications are processed in the order received while funds last, so applying early in the season helps. If approved, the benefit is usually paid directly to your utility company or fuel provider and credited to your account. If you have a heating or cooling emergency, ask about crisis assistance, which is handled faster. Keep your contact information current so you receive notices about the next season.
Official website / application link
Indiana IHCDA Energy Assistance Program (EAP), the federal federal LIHEAP (ACF) page, and Benefits.gov. Applying and card help are free through the official agency – never pay a third party.
Related guides on GlobalBenefits.org
- Back to the energy assistance (LIHEAP) hub
- Indiana SNAP / food stamps
- Benefits eligibility quick-check
- Documents you need to apply
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to be behind on my bill to get LIHEAP?
No – regular LIHEAP helps with ongoing energy costs, while crisis assistance is for emergencies like a shut-off. You can apply before you fall behind.
Can renters apply?
Yes. Both renters and homeowners can apply as long as they are responsible for their home energy costs.
Last reviewed July 24, 2026 by the GlobalBenefits editorial team. GlobalBenefits is not a government agency; figures and dates are set by the official agencies above and can change – always confirm there. See our corrections policy.
LIHEAP in more states: Massachusetts · Maryland · Missouri · Wisconsin.