Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Beginning with the new season on October 1, 2025, all LIHEAP/USF applications must be submitted directly online through the New Jersey Energy Assistance
Program Portal

When applying online, please ensure that you upload all required documents in the correct fields. Missing or incorrectly uploaded documents may result in a denial or significant delays in processing.

If you experience difficulties submitting your application online after October 1st, you may apply in person at 317 Roseville Avenue. Walk-in hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please note that, depending on the number of applicants, the line may close as early as noon. Arriving early is recommended. For inquiries about your LIHEAP application, you may also contact energyasst@lacasadedonpedro.org.

In addition, assistance will be available at La Casa de Don Pedro, 23 Broadway, Newark, NJ. Walk-in hours are Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and service will be provided to the first 50 applicants only, so early arrival is strongly encouraged.

We hope this information is helpful and supports a smooth application process.

How Do I Know If I Qualify for LIHEAP/USF?
Households earning at or below 60% of the state median income level may be eligible. Only your most recent monthly income counts, so if you’re behind on bills due to unemployment or other financial crises, you may now qualify. Both homeowners and renters are eligible and should apply.

How do I apply?
(Essex County Residents Only)

Please fill out the pre-screening questionnaire below and someone will reach out to you soon.

Office Hours for LIHEAP/USF this season are as follows:

317 Roseville Avenue, Newark NJ 07107
Monday – Thursday 9am – 4pm; Closed Fridays for data entry/outreach

For inquiries about your LIHEAP application, please contact energyasst@lacasadedonpedro.org.


Universal Service Fund (USF)

USF is a program created by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities and managed by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs to help make energy bills more affordable for low-income customers. If you are eligible, USF can lower the amount you have to pay for natural gas and electricity.

To be eligible for USF, your household must:

  • Be income-eligible according to the income requirements below.
  • Spend more than 2% of your household income on gas and/or electricity; (or spend more than 4% of your household income on electric heating).

If you are found eligible to participate in the USF program, you will receive a credit on your electric and/or natural gas bill to help reduce your monthly cost. The size of the monthly credit is based on total household income and the amount of money you typically pay for gas and electric service.

How Do I Apply? (Essex County residents only)
Click here to fill out the pre-screening questionnaire below and someone will reach out to you soon.