As temperatures drop, heating bills can put pressure on a fixed income. New Jersey's 2026–27 application period for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and Universal Service Fund (USF) runs from October 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. The state says applications are handled on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is worth checking eligibility and applying early.
LIHEAP helps eligible households with home heating costs and medically necessary cooling costs. The heating benefit depends on factors such as household income and size, fuel type, and heating region. When a household qualifies, payment may be sent to the utility or fuel supplier, depending on the heating arrangement.
USF helps make natural gas and electric bills more affordable. The program calculates assistance based on household income and energy costs, up to a stated maximum of $200 per month. A single application for LIHEAP is also an application for USF, and a household may receive help from both programs if eligible. Applying does not guarantee that benefits will be approved.
For LIHEAP, a household must be responsible for home heating or cooling costs, either directly or through rent, and have gross income at or below 60% of New Jersey's State Median Income. USF also has an income limit of 60% of State Median Income, and a household member must have a residential electric or gas bill in their name. Income limits vary by household size, so check the current state's LIHEAP and USF fact sheet rather than relying on an old chart or estimate.
Some housing arrangements have additional rules. For example, people living in public housing or receiving rental assistance generally cannot receive LIHEAP heating assistance unless they pay their own heating costs directly to the fuel supplier. Contact the state or a local application agency if you are unsure how your housing or utility arrangement affects eligibility.
New Jersey's Department of Community Affairs says people age 60 or older, as well as people with disabilities, may receive and return applications by mail or request a home visit from the agency serving their county if needed. If an online application is difficult, call the statewide energy assistance hotline at 1-800-510-3102 and ask for the local agency's application options.
Before contacting an agency, gather basic details about household members, income, heating fuel, and utility accounts. Ask the agency which documents it needs for your specific application, and keep a copy of what you submit. If you have received a shutoff notice or are worried about losing heat, tell the agency and your utility company when you call; they can explain which options may apply to your situation.
Program requirements, income guidelines, and application procedures can change. Confirm current details with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs LIHEAP/USF fact sheet or your county's authorized agency before making decisions. The state hotline is 1-800-510-3102.
