Through a block grant, the Federal Government provides funds to States for energy assistance (including weatherization) to low income households. This assistance may be provided by a variety of agencies (e.g., State or local welfare offices, community action agencies, special energy offices, etc.) and known by a variety of names (e.g., HEAP, Project Safe, etc.). It is most often provided in a medium other than cash (e.g., voucher, two-party check, direct payment to vendor, etc.) but may be in cash.

Home energy assistance payments or allowances provided under subchapter II of chapter 94, title 42 of the U.S. Code (Low-Income Energy Assistance) are excluded from income and resources.

Use documents in the individual's possession, contact with the provider or agency involved, or a precedent to verify that assistance from a particular program is provided under the Federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program or “LIHEAP” . Once this is verified, no further development or documentation is necessary.

Home energy assistance and support and maintenance assistance, SI 00830.605