Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often can I get assistance?
A: Once per season.
Q: How is a season defined?
A: The federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program LIHEAP usually opens after October 1st and runs through June of the following year, or until funds are exhausted. If you are a Puget Sound Energy customer (natural gas), you may apply for both PSE HELP and LIHEAP. You may apply for PSE HELP once per program year, which runs from October 1st through September 30th. It is possible to receive two grants (one from LIHEAP, the other from PSE HELP) in the same program year. This will be explained in more detail at your appointment.
Q: How do you calculate the payment? Is it based on the amount I owe to my utility company?
A: Your payment is based on many factors such as income, number of people in the household, type of housing, type of heating, whether or not you are in subsidized housing, etc. The amount that you owe is not used in the calculation.
Q: Do you help people in subsidized housing?
A: Yes, people in subsidized housing receive an energy assistance benefit just as if they were living in non-subsidized housing.
Q; What if my heat is included in my rent? Can I still apply?
A: Yes, even if your heat is included in your rent you may be eligible to receive a payment. You must provide proof that your heat is included in your rent.
Q: I live in King County. Where can I apply?
A: If you live within the city of Seattle, you may apply through CAMP. In south King County, you will apply through Multi Service Center. In north, northeast and southeast King County, you will apply through Hope Link. To make an appointment at any of these agencies, please call the 24 hour Appointment Hotline at 1-800-348-7144.
Q: What documentation do I bring to the interview?
A: See What to Bring to Your Appointment for a list of documents.
Q: Does my gas or electricity have to be shut off before I apply?
A: No.
Q: Do I have to own my home?
A: No, however to receive assistance with heating system repairs or replacements you must own your home.
Q: How much money can I qualify for? When will I receive notice about my payment?
A: In 2-3 weeks after your appointment, you should receive an award letter stating your benefit amount. In most cases if you come in for an appointment, you will find out the benefit amount during your appointment. (Note: if it is a shutoff, we will give the information as soon as the file is processed, and will call in the award amount to the utility.)
Q: What do I do with the letter?
A: Follow the instructions as outlined on your Applicant Fact Sheet. You will need to call your utility company and tell them your award amount and make payment arrangements on any balance owed.
