Oelslager Reminds Constituents of Heating Help Program

COLUMBUS — With winter only weeks away, State Representative Scott Oelslager (R-North Canton) is reminding his constituents that the Ohio Department of Development can help those struggling to make payments for their heating cost. 

The Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program (HEAP) helps  income eligible Ohioans that are threatened with disconnection, have been disconnected or have less than a 25% supply of bulk fuel in their tank maintain their utility service.

“Here in northeast Ohio our winters are cold and heat is a necessity, not a luxury,” said Oelslager. “This program will help ensure that everyone has access to utility services to stay warm this winter.”

To be eligible for the program, household income must be at or below 175% of the federal poverty line. Below is a chart to show income levels based on household size:

Size of Household
Total Household Income 12 Months
1      up to $22,540
2      up to $30,485
3      up to $38,430
4      up to $46,375
5      up to $54,320
6      up to $62,265
7      up to $70,210
8      up to $78,155
 

Ohio households serviced by Public Utilities Commission must sign up for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus or another payment plan to receive HEAP benefits. 

A household applying for HEAP must report total gross household income for the past 30 days for all members, except income earned by dependent minors under 18-years-old. Both homeowners and renters are eligible for assistance.     

The program runs until March 31, 2022.

For more information or to apply for the program you can visit https://development.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/development/individual/energy-assistance/winter-crisis-program.