April 16, 2020 – LIHEAP agencies across the country are making necessary changes to their typical operations to accommodate the circumstances due to the national COVID-19 pandemic. Resources are available to customers so they can stay informed on program changes in their area and not miss opportunities for assistance. Iowa, for example, has announced an application extension deadline, and offers online applications. Iowa residents now have until May 31 to apply.
It is important for LIHEAP recipients to be aware of online application opportunities during this time—as local offices may be closed during the pandemic. Drop boxes may be available outside the office where one would normally apply. Check with your local agency to learn what changes may be occurring in your area. Local agencies can be found on the LIHEAP Clearinghouse State Snapshots web page.
Many states have initiated or enforced moratoriums for utilities during the pandemic. The LIHEAP Clearinghouse has a link to a live view of moratorium changes happening around the country, provided by information gathered and collected by the Energy and Policy Institute.
Source: media reports
