Energy Assistance
Energy Assistance Program
The State of Minnesota's Energy Assistance Program (EAP) helps pay for home heating costs and furnace repairs for income-qualified households. Customers receive help by applying to their local agency for assistance. Minnesota Power works with these agencies to provide additional services to qualifying households. Both renters and homeowners can qualify. Eligibility is based on income and household size.
Online applications are now available at mn.gov/home.
The deadline to apply for Energy Assistance during the winter of 2023-2024 is May 31, 2024. Apply early, funds may run out.
How to apply for LIHEAP eligibility
Customers should apply online at mn.gov/home or directly with the EAP provider serving their county or tribe.
- Find Your EAP Provider.
- Contact your EAP provider and have them send you an application. You will also need one month proof of income for each household member and a copy of your last heating and electric bill. Sample applications can be found here.
- Mail your completed application to your EAP provider.
After customer-eligibility is determined, the agency will contact you. Agencies work with Minnesota Power to let them know if customers are EAP eligible. For help finding your local EAP provider, call 1-800-657-3710.
Services from EAP may include:
- Payment of energy bills.
- Help with utility disconnections or fuel deliveries.
- Education on efficient and safe use of energy.
- Advocacy with energy suppliers and human service providers.
- Repair or replacement of homeowners' broken heating systems.
Benefits and services that Minnesota Power provides to EAP qualified households:
- Eligibility for reduced rate (CARE).
- Weatherization programs provided through a partnership with local agencies.
- Exemptions from some fees (such as late payment fees).
Other Fuel/Heating Assistance Resources:
- United Way’s First Call program: Simply dial 211
- Minnesota Power’s Energy Partners Program
- Energy Assistance Hotline: 800-657-3710
- Salvation Army/HeatShare
FAQs
What is the Energy Assistance Program?
Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program helps pay heat, electricity, and past due water costs. Energy Assistance is free for eligible households.
How does the program work?
Payments for energy and water bills are sent directly to the household’s utility company or delivered fuel (e.g., propane, fuel oil, wood, etc.) provider. The initial grant ranges from $200 to $1,400 per household and averages $500. Additional grant for energy emergencies is also available.
Who can apply?
EAP is for renters or homeowners who meet income guidelines. Details about EAP eligibility guidelines can be found here.
What will I need to apply?
- An application from your local agency (find your local agency here), completed, signed and dated. (You can also apply online at mn.gov/home.)
- Proof of income received in the last 1 full calendar month for each household member.
- A copy of your last heating and electric bill and/or a copy of your last fuel receipt if you use delivered fuel for heating (such as propane).
When is the deadline to apply?
The deadline to apply for Energy Assistance during the winter of 2023-2024 is May 31, 2024.
The deadline for submitting an application for EAP benefits has passed, should I still submit my application?
Yes! Although Energy Assistance Program (EAP) funds are seasonal, there other are year-round benefits and discounts for EAP-qualified customers. You can apply to be EAP-qualified at any time, but you will need to reapply for EAP at the beginning of each program year to continue your enrollment in programs that use EAP guidelines.
What if I don’t qualify for EAP but still have trouble paying my bill?
- Payment Plan: Works with customers to set up a payment plan to resolve past-due balance while continuing to make current payments. Call customer service 1-800-228-4966.
- Cold Weather Rule: Available to all Minnesota Power residential customers to reconnect or prevent disconnection of service between October 1 and April 30 (customer required to make and keep payment arrangements).
- Salvation Army’s HeatShare program: Provides emergency utility assistance for families that have been denied county or other assistance.
- United Way’s First Call program: Simply dial 211 for crisis intervention and referral services 24/7.
- Lutheran Social Services, churches, and other local organizations may be able to provide additional assistance.
