The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program, known as the CEAP program, is a state-run initiative designed to help eligible low-income households in Connecticut with their energy costs, and it’s actually taking new applications for the heating assistance, to help you pay for energy bills during the upcoming cold months. It’s the state’s name for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
The CEAP (LIHEAP) provides financial assistance to help eligible households pay for their energy bills. The amount of aid depends on various factors, including income, household size, and the type of energy used. The program offers crisis intervention for households facing immediate energy-related emergencies, such as heating system failures or fuel shortages. The third branch of the program is the help for weatherization measures, to help homes to be more energy-efficient.
Applying for heating LIHEAP/CEAP resources in Connecticut
To apply for CEAP benefits, individuals and families must meet certain income guidelines and provide documentation to verify their eligibility. The program aims to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to essential heating and cooling services, promoting energy affordability and safety for Connecticut residents.
You can easily apply online by visiting the official Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) website. The online application portal is now open for the 2023-2024 season. If you want to do it by phone, reach out to your local Community Action Agency (CAA) and request assistance with applying for CEAP over the phone. They will guide you through the application process.
Do you want to apply by email? Download the CEAP application form from the CEAP website, complete it, and then email your application along with the required documents to your local Community Action Agency. If you prefer a traditional method, you can print your application, fill it out, and send your complete application by mail, along with the necessary documents, to your local Community Action Agency.
Requirements for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)
To qualify for the basic benefit under the CEAP program, households must have an income equal to or below 60% of the State Median Income. Additionally, vulnerable households, which encompass those with a member aged under 6, over 60, or with a disability, may be eligible for a higher basic benefit. The basic benefit amount ranges from $250 to $550, contingent on the household’s income level. If a vulnerable individual resides in the household, the basic benefit can vary from $300 to $600.
Eligible households that rely on deliverable fuels such as oil, wood, wood pellets, propane, kerosene, or coal for heating can receive a Crisis Assistance benefit of $430. Throughout the program year, households falling under Level 1 (at or below 125% of the federal poverty guideline) and Level 2 (households between 126% and 200% of the federal poverty guideline) may qualify for a second Crisis Assistance benefit. Vulnerable households at Level 1 and Level 2 may also be eligible for a third Crisis Assistance benefit during the program year.
For households within 60% of the state median income guidelines whose heating costs are included in their rent, the rental assistance benefit ranges from $100 to $150, depending on their income level. To qualify for CEAP, every member of the household must meet the income guidelines. Household income must not exceed 60% of the state’s median income. Applicants receiving benefits such as SNAP, TFA/TANF, SSI, State Supp, Refugee Cash Assistance, or those with an annual household income at or below the specified levels in the table are eligible. Applicants must possess a Social Security Number for each household member, unless they meet one of the exceptions.