Energy Assistance

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a federally funded program that helps eligible households pay a portion of their home energy costs by providing a one-time per year benefit.

The 2026 LIEAP application period begins January 20, 2026, at 8 a.m. and ends March 31, 2026, at 5 p.m. Applications will not be accepted, and payments will not be issued until the season officially opens.

Create a DCF Self-Service Portal account or use your existing login to apply between January 20, 2026, and March 31, 2026, at 5 p.m.

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What is LIEAP?

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a federally funded program that helps eligible households pay a portion of their home energy costs by providing a one-time per year benefit.

Who is eligible for LIEAP?

To qualify for LIEAP, applicants must meet the following requirements:

An adult living at the address must be personally responsible for paying the heating costs at the current residence, payable either to the landlord, utility company, or fuel supplier.
The combined gross income (before deductions) of all persons living at the address may not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level according to the guidelines listed below:

Persons Living at this Address	Maximum Gross Monthly Income
1	$1,956
2	$2,644
3	$3,331
4	$4,019
5	$4,706
6	$5,394
7	$6,081
8	$6,769
+1 $688 for each additional person

How do I apply for LIEAP?

Applying for LIEAP is easy. You can complete your LIEAP application online through the DCF Self-Service Portal at dcfapp.kees.ks.gov during the LIEAP application period.

Paper applications are available at your local DCF Service Center or they can be requested by calling toll-free 1-888-369-4777. A printable LIEAP application is available on the Helpful Tips page during the LIEAP application period.
Answer all the questions on the application to the best of your ability. The application provides us with the information we need to determine eligibility for your household. You must include the signatures of all adults living in the residence.

Please also provide copies of the following information:
Proof of income (earned and unearned) for anyone living in the residence.
Copy of all fuel bills (gas, electric, propane, etc.).
Proof of child support payments received or the court order.
If in subsidized housing, provide a copy of your rental agreement.

Do I have to apply for LIEAP every year?

Most households will need to submit a new application for LIEAP every year.

Some households may be continuously eligible for LIEAP for a three-year period if everyone in the household is 62 years old or older and Social Security or KPERS is the only source of income. Households that meet this criterion will be notified when they need to fill out a new application to renew their LIEAP benefits.

How much is the LIEAP benefit amount?

The LIEAP benefit amount is based on several factors, including:
- Federal funding received and the anticipated number of applicants.
- Household income.
- Number of persons living at the address.
- Type of dwelling.
- Type of primary heating fuel.

Can I qualify for LIEAP if my name is not on the utility bill?

An adult household member’s name must be on the utility bill of the primary heating source. If you rent from a landlord and heating costs are included in the rent or are owed in addition to the rent, you may also qualify and should apply for LIEAP under your name.

Can the LIEAP benefit be split between two utilities?

Yes. Both bills must be in the name of an adult household member.

How many LIEAP payments will I receive?

LIEAP pays only one benefit per year.

If funding allows, a supplemental LIEAP benefit may be issued at the end of each LIEAP season to households that received a benefit during that season. Households will be notified if they are going to receive a supplemental LIEAP benefit.

I received my LIEAP benefit but still need help paying my utility bill. What else can I do?

Kansans may be able to find additional support by contacting United Way’s 211 hotline or website, 211.org, or by calling 1-800-CHILDREN (1-800-332-6378) or visiting their website, 1800childrenks.org.

Your utility company may also have other options to help with your utility bill.

What is the Cold Weather Rule?

The Cold Weather Rule helps ensure Kansans will have electric, gas, and water service for their homes during the winter. You must make pay arrangements with your utility to use the rule.

The Cold Weather Rule applies only to residential customers of electric and natural gas utility companies under the Kansas Corporation Commission’s jurisdiction.

For more information about the Cold Weather Rule, please visit the KCC website at https://www.kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule or contact the Kansas Corporation Commission at 1-800-662-0027.