Ohio winters push gas and electric bills up fast, and a shutoff notice in January is a crisis for any family. The Home Energy Assistance Program, known as HEAP, is the main state program that helps low-income households pay for heat. It’s funded by the federal government and run by the Ohio Department of Development through local community action agencies.
What is HEAP in Ohio?
HEAP gives eligible households a one-time credit each heating season toward their main heating source. That can be natural gas, electricity, propane, fuel oil, wood or another bulk fuel. The credit goes straight to your utility or fuel supplier and shows up on your bill, usually starting in January.
HEAP sits alongside three related programs:
| Program | What it does | When |
|---|---|---|
| Regular HEAP | One-time credit on your heating bill | Apply from July 1 through May 31 |
| Winter Crisis Program (E-HEAP) | Emergency help if you’ve been disconnected, have a shutoff notice, need to transfer service or have less than a 10-day supply of bulk fuel | November 1 through March 31 |
| Summer Crisis Program | Help with cooling bills or an air conditioner for households with a member aged 60 or older, or with a documented medical condition | July 1 through September 30 |
| PIPP Plus | Monthly payments based on a share of your income instead of your actual usage, for customers of regulated gas and electric utilities | Year-round |
HEAP Ohio income limits
To qualify, your household’s gross income must be at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines. For the 2025 to 2026 season the limits were:
| Household size | Annual gross income at or below |
|---|---|
| 1 | $27,387.50 |
| 2 | $37,012.50 |
| 3 | $46,637.50 |
| 4 | $56,262.50 |
| 5 | $65,887.50 |
For larger households, contact your local Energy Assistance Provider. The state updates these figures each program year, so check energyhelp.ohio.gov for the current season’s table before you apply.
How to apply for HEAP in Ohio
You have three ways to apply:
- Online at energyhelp.ohio.gov. This is the fastest route if you have scans or photos of your documents.
- By appointment with your local Energy Assistance Provider. In Summit County, that’s Community Action Akron Summit. Their HEAP line is 330-436-0261, and they also book appointments online at capappointments.com. Appointments run by phone.
- By mail, using a paper application from the Ohio Department of Development.
Documents you’ll need
- Photo ID for the applicant
- Social Security numbers for everyone in the household
- Proof of income for every adult member: the last 30 days or the last 12 months
- Your most recent gas and electric bills, with account numbers
- Proof of disability, if anyone in the household receives disability benefits
- Proof of citizenship or legal residency
Missing paperwork is the most common reason for delays. If an agency asks for more documents, send them right away.
How to check your Ohio HEAP application status
You can check your HEAP application status online through the energyhelp.ohio.gov portal, using the information from your application. You can also call the Ohio Department of Development’s energy assistance hotline or your local agency. Processing can take several weeks during peak season in the fall and winter.
How much does HEAP pay in Ohio?
Ohio doesn’t publish a single flat amount. Your credit depends on household size, income, fuel type and how much energy your home uses. Many households receive a few hundred dollars toward their winter heating costs. The Winter Crisis Program has its own limits and can cover the amount needed to restore or keep service, up to a cap set each year.
Winter Crisis Program: when you’re facing a shutoff
If you have a disconnect notice, have already lost service or are almost out of propane or fuel oil, apply for the Winter Crisis Program as soon as it opens on November 1. You’ll need an appointment with your local agency. Each household can use the crisis program once per heating season.
Ohio also has a winter reconnect order that lets customers of regulated utilities restore or keep service by paying a set amount during the heating season. Ask your utility or Community Action Akron Summit whether it applies to your situation that year.
Other utility assistance in Akron
HEAP won’t cover everything. If you’re behind on several bills at once:
- Call 2-1-1 to reach United Way’s local helpline, which tracks open assistance programs in Summit County.
- Ask your gas and electric companies about payment plans and their own hardship funds. Akron-area gas customers now deal with Enbridge Gas Ohio, formerly Dominion Energy Ohio.
- Look into the Home Weatherization Assistance Program, which can lower your bills over time by sealing drafts and improving insulation.
Housing costs and energy costs often hit together. If you’re also behind on rent, the guide to rent assistance in Akron lists local programs. For food, clothing and other basic needs, start with the overview of community assistance in Akron.
More guides to local help for Akron families are collected on the Akron Dream Center site.
FAQ
Who qualifies for HEAP in Ohio?
Households with gross income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines. You don’t need to be behind on your bills to apply for regular HEAP.
When can I apply for HEAP in Ohio?
Regular HEAP applications open July 1 and run through May 31 of the following year. The Winter Crisis Program runs November 1 through March 31.
Do renters qualify for HEAP?
Yes, if you pay for heat directly or your rent includes heating costs. Bring your lease if heat is included in your rent.
Does HEAP have to be paid back?
No. HEAP is a benefit, not a loan.
Can I get HEAP and PIPP Plus at the same time?
Yes. Many households use both. One application covers HEAP and PIPP Plus enrollment.