BPU Encourages Customers to Apply for LIEAP Assistance Ahead of the Winter Season

KANSAS CITY, KS—As temperatures drop, the Kansas City Board of Public Utilities (BPU) urges customers to explore available financial assistance programs to help manage their utility costs. One resource available to help customers is the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP), administered by the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF).

What is LIEAP?
LIEAP provides a one-time annual payment to help eligible low-income households cover home energy expenses. The 2025 application period is from Nov.18, 2024, to March 31, 2025, by 5 p.m. Central.

Eligibility Criteria

Income Guidelines: Applicants’ combined gross income must not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level.
U.S. Citizenship: Applicant must be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident.
Assistance and Responsibility: LIEAP funds are applied directly to the customer’s utility account but may not cover the total amount of your bill. Customers are responsible for paying any remaining balance not covered by the program.

How to Determine Criteria and Apply: For information on eligibility and application methods and to see if you qualify for financial assistance through LIEAP, please visit the DCF website at www.dcf.ks.gov and select LIEAP Energy Assistance under the Economic & Employment Services column or contact your local DCF office for further assistance.

Additional Assistance Programs from BPU: BPU offers a range of support to help customers manage utility bills, including:

Customer Payment Hardship Program: Temporary aid for those facing financial difficulties due to unexpected challenges.
Flexible Payment Arrangements: Options designed to help customers stay current on their accounts.
Community Agency Support: Additional utility assistance through local partners like United Way, Avenue of Life, and Cross-Lines.

“Supporting our customers year-round is a priority for BPU,” said Bill Johnson, general manager of BPU. “We encourage anyone struggling to pay their utility bills to reach out and explore these available resources.”

For more information on LIEAP or other BPU assistance programs, visit www.bpu.com or contact BPU Customer Service at 913-573-9190.

For media inquiries, please contact Amber Oetting by email: aoetting@bpu.com, phone: (913) 573-9000, website: www.bpu.com.

About BPU

The Kansas City Board of Public Utilities (BPU) is a community-owned, nonprofit utility that provides reliable electric and water services to approximately 67,000 electric and 53,000 water customers in Wyandotte County, Kansas. Established in 1909, BPU remains dedicated to delivering safe, sustainable, and affordable utilities while reinvesting in the community it serves. Guided by a mission to enhance the quality of life for residents, BPU focuses on transparency, innovation, and customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.bpu.com.