10-2-14 home heating assistance

The Department of Administration’s State Energy Office reminds residents that heating assistance will be available through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) from October 1, 2014 until May 15, 2015.  The State estimates that 227,000 households will receive assistance in paying their heating bills this season.  Eligibility is based on household income, household size, and the home’s heating costs.  Residents may be eligible if the gross household income is 60% of the state median income level or less.  WHEAP pays benefits directly to fuel suppliers to offset the cost of home heating.  Crisis assistance, emergency fuel assistance, and emergency furnace repair and replacement for eligible homeowners may also be offered based on household need.   Residents can apply for heating assistance through county social service offices, tribal governments, and private non-profit agencies.  Call toll-free 1-866-HEATWIS (432-8947) or visit the WHEAP Where to Apply webpage for the local agency in your area.

This heating season, the average heating benefit is expected to be $267, which is based upon an estimate that Wisconsin will receive $92 million in federal funds.  When the State receives the full amount of federal funds, the average heating benefit is expected to increase.  Last year, 224,728 households received heating assistance with an average benefit of $302.

The Department of Administration oversees both the WHEAP program and the State Energy Office.