Applications now accepted for Iowa energy assistance program

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) agencies is now accepting applications for the upcoming heating season.

The program, administered through the Bureau of Energy Assistance, provides money to moderate- and low-income level households to help pay a portion of their winter heating bills, are calculated based on household size, income level, and home energy costs.

The program helps households with incomes meeting eligibility guidelines. A family of four that earns $35,325 annually or less, or a two-person family that earns $23,265 annually or less, may qualify for energy assistance dollars.

Qualified Iowa residents can apply at their local county energy assistance agency through April 30, 2014. To determine eligibility, applicants must bring Social Security numbers for all household members, proof of income for household members 19 years or older, recent heat bill, recent electric bill, and recent telephone bill.