The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is federally funded and designed to help eligible low-income Ohioans with their home heating costs. Eligible Ohio residents receive a one-time credit, which is applied to their energy bill by their utility company. The amount received depends on federal funding levels, how many people live in the household, the total household income, and the fuel used to heat the home.

Applicants must be at or below 175 percent of the 2015 federal poverty guidelines. Applications will be accepted July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016. For a single person, the household income must be less than $20,597.50. To determine eligibility, add $7,280 for each additional family member. Household income is the gross income before taxes of all household members, except the income of minors under 18 years of age.

An applicant must provide proof of the past 12 months of income, a recent copy of a utility bill, and a signed application.

To request a copy of the application, inquire at the Circulation Desk at the New Carlisle Public Library.