As of Oct. 1, Mid-Iowa Community Action, Inc. is accepting applications for the agency’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). At that time, the agency will accept applications from individuals age 60 or older or those with a disability. On Nov. 1, MICA will begin accepting all other LIHEAP applications.

LIHEAP provides a one-time payment to help pay a household’s heating costs. To be eligible for assistance, individuals must earn 200 percent or less of federal poverty guidelines. This year, an individual can earn up to $31,300 annually to be eligible. A family of four can earn up to $64,300.

Funded by the Department of Health and Human Services, LIHEAP is not designed to pay a household’s total energy costs for the winter. Instead, it provides supplemental assistance based on several factors, including household income, household size, dwelling type, type of heating fuel and others. Households that are approved for LIHEAP may also qualify for weatherization services from MICA as well. All payments are contingent upon the availability of federal funds.

There are several ways to apply for LIHEAP assistance. Forms and instructions can be found at www.micaonline.org/liheap or picked up at the MICA Family Services Center in the county listed below. Households can also make an appointment to apply by phone in any county by calling 641-752-7162 and following the prompts for LIHEAP/energy assistance or schedule online. Applications will be accepted until April 30, 2027.

Family Services Offices:

Hardin County: 637 S. Oak St. in Iowa Falls.

Marshall County: 1001 S. 18th Ave. in Marshalltown.

Tama County: 105 S. State St. in Tama.

Story County: 230 SE 16th St. in Ames.

Poweshiek County: 609 4th Ave. in Grinnell.

Bring the following to the appointment: A copy of the most recent heating and electric bill; Proof of all household members gross incomes for the past month or the most recent income tax return; Birth dates and general information for all household members; Social Security cards or I-94 cards for all household members. If a household does not have either of these, contact MICA for more information.