Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

The Ohio Department of Development and Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging (WRAAA) are reminding older adults in Northeast Ohio that assistance is available to help manage home heating costs through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

HEAP offers financial assistance to eligible households by applying benefits directly to their utility or bulk fuel bills. Households may qualify if their income is at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty level (for up to eight people) or 60 percent of the state median income (for households of nine or more). Applications are currently open and must be submitted by May 2026.

Residents can apply online at https://energyhelp.ohio.gov. There are three ways to apply: online, by appointment or by mail.

Applicants will need

• Proof of income
• Utility bills
• Social Security numbers
• Citizenship status
• Proof of disability (if applicable)

For assistance, call your local Energy Assistance Providers:

Cuyahoga County:

Phone: 216-480-4327 (HEAP)
Organization: Step Forward
Book Appointments at stepforward.itfrontdesk.com

Geauga County:

Phone: (440) 350-9160
Organization: Lifeline

Lake County:

Phone: (440) 381-8230
Organization: Lifeline for the Empowerment and Development of Consumers, Inc. (LEDC)

Lorain County:

Phone: (440) 538-6999
Organization: Lorain County Community Action Agency

Medina County:

Phone: (330) 461-9333 or (330) 264-8677 (same-day appointment)
Organization: Community Action Wayne/Medina

You can also reach the Ohio Energy Assistance Line at 1-800-282-0880 (hearing impaired dial 711).