The program, designed for low-income residents, provides payments ranging from $250 to $600 to assist with winter energy expenses. The deadline for the latest application round is May 31, and submissions can be made online. The majority of approved applicants will have their funds sent directly to their utility provider, with the rebate appearing on their subsequent bill.
The Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) assists Connecticut residents in affording home heating. CEAP applications typically take 30-45 minutes to complete. Basic benefits for heating bills range from $250 to $600, depending on income level, household size, and the presence of vulnerable household members.
Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) benefits
Generally, these benefits are paid directly to your utility company or fuel supplier. Households using deliverable fuels like oil or propane may qualify for additional fuel deliveries. CEAP participants may also be eligible for matching payment plans, protection from shut-offs, and heating equipment and/or water heater repair or replacement.
The program is managed by Connecticut’s Department of Social Services in collaboration with local Community Action Agencies (CAAs) across the state.
Who is eligible for this benefit
Your household may qualify for CEAP if each member can answer YES to the following questions. Keep in mind that your household includes everyone living in your home (e.g., children, spouse, grandparents, roommates, etc.):
- Are you a Connecticut resident?
- Do you or anyone in your household meet one of the following income guidelines? a. If you or any person in your household receive any of the following benefits: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Family Assistance (TFA / TANF), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), State Supplement for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (State Supp), Refugee Cash Assistance, or b.
- Your annual household income falls at or below the income levels 60% of the state’s median income
Before starting your application
Refer to the ‘Who Is Eligible’ tab. and collect your energy and/or water documents: You will need either a copy of your most recent heating bill (if applying for Heating Assistance), electric bill (if applying for Heating Assistance), and water bill (if applying for Water Assistance), or a copy or photo of your rental lease indicating that your utilities are included in your rent.
Gather your income documents (as needed): If you or anyone in your household currently receives benefits like SNAP or cash assistance, you automatically meet the income requirements and do not need to collect any income documents (see the full list under ‘Confirm your eligibility’). If you don’t receive one of those benefits, you will need to submit proof of income.
Collect your supplementary documents (if necessary): Based on your circumstances, you may need to provide extra documents. If any of the following apply, download and complete the form(s) before beginning your online application. You will be asked to upload a photo or copy of the completed form as part of your application process.