Some Pennsylvania households will receive a $100 boost toward their energy bills after an announcement last week by state human services officials.
Advertisements
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services is automatically issuing the one-time supplemental payment to approximately 193,000 low-income households that received Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) benefits during the 2025-2026 season.
To qualify for the additional relief, households must include at least one member who has a disability, is age 60 or older, or is a child under 6.
“We know that even though winter is over, many Pennsylvanians may still need assistance with utility bills from last season,” said Dr. Val Arkoosh, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. “LIHEAP helps some of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable citizens – children, older Pennsylvanians, people with disabilities, and low-income families – make ends meet and keep their homes safer, and we are pleased to be able to offer this one-time supplemental payment to LIHEAP households.”
Advertisements
Distributions began Wednesday, July 29, with payments sent directly to the same utility company or home heating fuel vendor that received the household’s original cash grant. If a supplemental payment is issued to an electric provider, it may also be applied toward home cooling costs.
Eligible renters and homeowners do not need to reapply to receive the money and will be sent a notice confirming their eligibility. The assistance is provided as a grant, meaning recipients do not have to repay the funds.
Advertisements
The supplemental payouts were made possible by leftover federal LIHEAP funding from the 2025-26 operational year. State officials noted that receiving the $100 boost will not affect a household’s eligibility for the upcoming 2026-27 LIHEAP season, with details on the new season expected later this year.
The 2025-26 LIHEAP season officially closed May 8, 2026, after helping more than 278,000 households across the Commonwealth maintain home heating through the winter.
Pennsylvanians interested in applying for other public assistance programs can do so online at www.dhs.pa.gov/COMPASS or via the myCOMPASS PA mobile app. In-person services remain available at local County Assistance Offices for residents who cannot access digital tools or need direct aid.
Advertisements
Residents can also call state customer service lines at 215-560-7226 for Philadelphia clients or 1-877-395-8930 for clients in all other counties. Additional information on LIHEAP is available through the department.
