The cost of everything seems to be going up these days, but help has arrived for residents who need help with their heating bills. The Energy Assistance Heating Benefit Season begins October 1 for residents to provide eligible renters and homeowners a break on their energy bills—plus additional benefits such as heater or water heater repair or replacement, energy-efficient lighting and thermostats, and weatherization assistance, depending on where you live and the services provided.
Wisconsin residents: Statewide customer care center can be found at (800) 506-5596 or use the toll free number for the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) at (866) HEAT-WIS (432-8947), online access can be found at the Wisconsin Department of Administration website. Community Advocates can help you schedule your appointment over the phone or online plus many offices have limited availability for walk-in appointments beginning October 1.
Minnesota residents: Commerce Energy Information Center (800) 657-3710 and enter their zip code to find their EAP (energy assistance program) provider. Apply online through the Minnesota Department of Commerce website
Michigan residents: Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP), works with households to provide supplemental bill payment assistance and self-sufficiency services to low-income residents statewide. A list of organizations that deliver MEAP services can be found here. MEAP Grantees are all Community Partners with MDHHS and can help applicants to navigate the MDHHS application process.
Illinois residents: Help Illinois Families at (833) 711-0374 or dial 211 to reach Illinois United Way Referral Center.
Indiana residents: Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) at (800) 382-4672 to access Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Indiana and can direct individuals to the appropriate local agency based on their location for cooling and heating bills.
Ohio residents: Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) at (800) 282-0880 to locate their nearest energy assistance provider; usually Community action agency (CAA). Website
