Federal Fund Helps Low Income Families Pay Energy Costs

(KANSAS CITY, Kan.) — The Kansas Low-Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP) program is still accepting applications now through Wednesday, March 31st.

The program provides an annual benefit to help qualifying households pay their winter heating bills. Persons with disabilities, older adults and families with children are the primary groups who are assisted.

Kansas energy customers can apply for LIEAP program funds on the Kansas Department for Children and Families Energy Assistance website. Applicants will need utility account numbers, proof of income and Social Security numbers for all members of their household.

To learn more about eligibility requirements or fill out a LIEAP application, visit the Kansas Department for Children and Families website or call 1-800-432-0043. LIEAP applications on the Kansas Department for Children and Families website at Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP).

“We have some customers in need of help and are pleased funds may be available to them,” said David Mehlhaff, BPU Chief Communications Officer. “When we are connecting with our customers to provide helpful resources and services, sharing information about LIEAP is a meaningful way to help.”

In response to the challenging times, the Kansas City Board of Public Utilities (BPU) extended disconnects of utility service for non-payment until March 31st.

LIEAP is a federally funded program that helps eligible households pay a portion of their home energy costs by providing a one-time per year benefit.

To qualify, applicants must be responsible for direct payment of their heating bills. The level of benefit varies according to household income, number of people living in the home, type of residence, type of heating fuel and utility rates. Eligibility is based on an applicant’s heating bill. If an applicant needs assistance covering electric costs, they need to request the benefit be split between the two utilities.

Applicants need to have made payments on their heating bill two out of the last three months. Those payments must be equal to or exceed $80 or the total balance due on their energy bills, whichever is less.

Funding for the Low-Income Energy Assistance program is provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Community Service through the Federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Customers are encouraged to stay current with their bills to avoid getting too far behind and if anyone has any BPU billing or customer service questions, they can call 913-573-9190 and a utility representative is available to assist.