SRS to Accept Applications for Low Income Energy Assistance Program

The Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) will be accepting applications for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) from Wednesday, January 18 through Friday, March 30, 2012.

LIEAP provides an annual benefit to help qualifying households pay winter heating bills. Individuals with disabilities, elderly persons, and families with children are the primary groups assisted. An average benefit of $262.88 was provided to 62,000 households in 2011.

To qualify, applicants must be responsible for direct payment of their heating bills. Income eligibility guidelines are set at 130 percent of the federal poverty level. Persons with incomes within the following guidelines may receive LIEAP benefits:

Persons living		Maximum allowable
at the address		monthly income
1		$ 1,180
2		$1,594
3		$2,008
4		$2,422
5		$2,836
**Add $414 for each additional person.**

The level of benefit varies according to household income, number of persons living at the address, type of dwelling, type of heating fuel, and utility rates. Applicants must demonstrate they have made payments on their heating utility bill two out of the last three months and those payments must be equal to or exceed $80 or the total balance due on their energy bills whichever is less.

Applications for the program have been mailed to households who received energy assistance last year, along with other targeted low-income families, including those who received food, cash or medical assistance in December. LIEAP applications are available at local SRS offices or can be requested by calling toll-free 1-800-432-0043. Visit www.srs.ks.gov to apply online.