The PA Department of Public Welfare began accepting applications for this season’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) on November 1st.  LIHEAP helps low-income families pay their heating bills.

You can apply and check the status of your application on the state’s COMPASS website, which can be accessed by visiting www.dpw.state.pa.us and clicking on the COMPASS link.  You can also pick up an application in my district offices, or download one yourself at www.dpw.state.pa.us.  Completed paper applications should be returned to the Allegheny County Assistance Office.
Funding for LIHEAP is provided by the federal government and eligibility is based on Federal Poverty Income Guidelines.  The income limits this season are as follows:

After your application is reviewed, you will receive a written notice explaining your eligibility and the amount of assistance you will receive.  Payments are generally sent directly to a utility company or fuel provider and are credited to your account.  Crisis grants are also available to those who have an emergency situation and are in jeopardy of losing their heat.  Crisis assistance is available 24 hours a day by calling the Allegheny County Department of Human Services at -800-851-3838.  For additional home heating assistance, you may also want to contact your utility company.  You may also call the LIHEAP hotline at 1-866-857-7095 with any questions about the program.

Deadline for Property Tax/Rent Rebate Applications

If you have not filed for the PA Property Tax & Rent Rebate Program, I want to remind you the deadline is December 31st.  If you are age 65 and older, a person with a disability 18 and older, or a widow or widower age 50 and older, you may be eligible.  Income limits are $35,000 for homeowners and $15,000 for renters.  The maximum standard rebate is $650, but supplemental rebates for qualifying homeowners can increase rebates to $975.  You can stop by any of my district offices to obtain a claim form (PA-1000), receive help in completing your application, and check the status of your claim.

You may also check the status of claims online by visiting the Department of Revenue’s website at www.revenue.state.pa.us or by calling 1-888-PATAXES.  This program is supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery and revenue from slots gaming.

If you need assistance with LIHEAP, your property tax or rent rebate application, or any other state matter, please call or visit one of my district offices and my staff, as always, will be happy to assist you.

Senator Wayne D. Fontana
42nd Senatorial District
www.senatorfontana.com