As summer temperatures soar across the United States, many households, especially those with middle- and low-income earners, are struggling with soaring electricity bills due to constant air conditioning use.
For many, programs like the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offer much-needed financial relief. However, with so many state and federal programs, understanding how to apply and which options are available can be confusing.
This guide covers LIHEAP and other state-based financial assistance options available in June 2025 and for the remainder of the year.
What is LIHEAP and How Does It Help?
LIHEAP is a federal program designed to assist households in managing the high costs of heating and cooling their homes. In the summer months, when heat waves hit, cooling assistance is often just as vital as heating aid during the winter.
Maria Reyes, a grandmother from Phoenix, shared her experience with LIHEAP when her air conditioning unit broke during a 110-degree week last summer. “LIHEAP covered a new window unit within 48 hours. Without it, we would have ended up in the ER,” she recalled.
The program is vital for those in regions facing extreme summer temperatures, and it’s designed to prevent heat-related illnesses or fatalities. While the program helps many, it’s not always available year-round in all states. In some regions, funding can run out quickly, making it essential to apply early.
States with LIHEAP and Other Assistance Programs in 2025
Programs for summer cooling assistance vary greatly depending on the state. Some states offer year-round support, while others have specific windows for application. Here’s a breakdown of where cooling assistance is available:
Year-Round Programs (Apply Anytime)
These states provide year-round assistance for cooling needs, although funds can run out quickly:
California
Washington D.C.
Nevada
Oregon
Tennessee
Texas
Early Start States (Open March–April)
These states open their programs early in the spring to help families manage cooling costs from the beginning of the hot months:
Hawaii: March 1 – September 30 (Special window for heating/cooling combo in June)
Arizona: April 1 – October 31 (Some counties extend to November 30)
Florida: April 1 – September 30
Georgia: April 1 – July 31 (Runs through October 2024–September 2025)
Peak Summer Help (May–July)
These states start providing assistance during the summer months:
Alabama: May 1 – September 30
Delaware: May 1 – August 31
Kentucky: May 1 – September 30 (Only if extra funds are available)
Mississippi: May 1 – September 30
Missouri: June 1 – September 30
Nebraska: June 1 – August 31 (Funds permitting)
New York: April 15 – August 29 (Until funds are exhausted)
Ohio: July 1 – September 30
Oklahoma: July 15 – September 30 (First-come, first-served)
South Carolina: May 1 – September 30
Virginia: June 15 – August 15 (Application dates)
Special Cases
Some states have flexible or contingent programs that can be activated during extreme heat or rely on leftover heating funds:
Arkansas: July 7 – August 29
Illinois: No dedicated cooling program, but general energy aid is available until August 15 or until funds run out
North Dakota: Activates during extreme heat
Puerto Rico: March 3 – September 30
West Virginia: December 1 – September 30 (Cooling assistance as needed)
How to Apply for LIHEAP Assistance
It’s essential to apply for LIHEAP assistance as soon as the program window opens in your state. Early applications can help ensure you receive the support you need before funds run out. Here’s what you need to know:
Documents: Be ready to provide proof of income, utility bills, and your ID. Income caps are typically set at 150% of the federal poverty level.
Crisis Assistance: If you receive a shutoff notice for your electricity or your AC unit fails, most states can expedite assistance within 48 hours.
Application Process: You can apply online by searching for “LIHEAP in my area” to find the nearest agency. Each state has its own application process and deadlines.
The Importance of LIHEAP and Other Cooling Assistance Programs
In the face of longer, hotter summers due to climate change, LIHEAP and similar programs are becoming even more critical. These programs don’t just provide comfort—they can save lives. As activist Luis Mendez points out, “This isn’t about comfort.
It’s about whether a 78-year-old on a fixed income lives through September.” The demand for cooling assistance is growing, and the urgency of applying early is becoming more crucial as summer heat waves become more frequent and intense.
By applying as soon as possible and having all necessary documentation ready, you can ensure that you receive the help you need to stay safe and comfortable during the hot months ahead.