Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

THE 2024-2025 energy season for LIHEAP is now open and accepting new applications/recertification from October 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025.

PLEASE NOTE: There is a new application process in place for this LIHEAP season. An NJ.gov portal account (https://njdca-housing.dynamics365portals.us/en-US/) must be created prior to submitting your application and supporting documents.

If you need assistance, La Casa de Don Pedro is here to help. An agency representative can help upload your supporting documents. Just have your portal account set up prior to visiting us.

Applicants who submitted their application online should submit their UAP application ID to [email protected] to begin the review process. Please remember your UAP #, account username and password.

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

 

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.