LIHEAP energy bill assistance and weatherization in Iowa.
Families in Iowa can receive help for paying heating bills, and free energy conservation measures, from LIHEAP as well as weatherization. The programs are funded by the federal government, and applications are accepted at your local community action agency or an intake number listed below. Both of these resources were created to assist low income families in Iowa and across the nation.
Funding is limited, and applications are accepted on a first come/first served basis. Priority is for families with children, disabled, and senior citizens in Iowa. There is often a waiting list for the weatherization program, and you can get more information on that as well as LIHEAP at your local community action agency in Iowa.
Grants for paying heating and utility bills in Iowa
Heating bill assistance is provided using an income scale that also factors in the number of household members. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was never intended to pay a household’s total energy bill, however it provides some money to help partially pay a bill. A formal application process is in place, with various forms of proof and supporting documentation needed. An approval for the LIHEAP program allows the client to also be automatically enrolled in the winter moratorium protection from disconnection of their utilities, but it does not guarantee a payment for the applicant.
Your request for funds is subject to review and any assistance provided is totally dependent on the availability of federal government funds, grants and other factors. In most cases, any cash benefits paid out by the program will be in the form of a credit applied to your heating bill by your energy provider. Both renters and homeowners in Iowa may be eligible.
Not only does LIHEAP supplement the high cost of Iowa winter heating bills, it can also possibly pay for emergency furnace repairs or even a new heating unit for qualified individuals. All assistance depends on funding, the applicant meeting qualifications, and demand. You need to continue to pay your utility bills while you wait for the application to be processed in the system. The LIHEAP payment amount will be based on factors such as your total household income, dwelling type, type of heating, and household size. Telephone (515) 281-0859.
Free energy bill savings
The Iowa Weatherization program provides homeowners and/or renters with long-term savings and financial relief. It can improve the energy efficiency of homes, install free conservation measures, and reduce heating bills. Additional services can also educate utility customers about their energy use and methods to reduce consumption. There is usually a waiting list for this program.
If you are successfully enrolled into the Weatherization program, highly trained contractors and experts may install permanent measures to your home. They will in effect improve the heating and cooling systems and weatherize the building shell. Potential indoor air quality and client health and safety issues are addressed, including checks of all combustion appliances.
A computerized energy audit will also take place, and it helps determine the cost-effectiveness of various energy efficiency upgrades like the installation of new or additional insulation. The weatherization program is Iowa uses trained crews and contractors to install permanent cost effective measures that will help people save money on their heating bill over the long term.
Weatherization can also pay for insulating attics, sidewalls, banjoists and crawlspaces, venting attics, minor foundation repairs, and weather-stripping doors, windows and caulking. Some Iowa community action agencies and utility companies can pay for the cost of installing energy saving devices like low-flow shower heads, high-efficiency light bulbs, and water heater covers. Contractors can also clean and tune gas furnaces and heating systems. Rarely, funding can be obtained from local utility companies to provide free or low cost high efficiency furnaces, water heaters, fluorescent lights, refrigerators, and freezers.
Find how to apply for weatherization conservation or low income energy bill help in Iowa
As indicated above, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) and Home Weatherization Programs are federal government funded and administered by your local Iowa Community Action Agency (CAA) as well as Iowa Department of Human Rights Bureau of Energy Assistance. Eligibility for both programs is based on factors such as income and household size. You will also need proof of that income, copy of most current heating and electric bill, and more. Or call Human Services at 1-800- 972-2017 for referrals to LIHEAP grants.
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