Need help with winter heat? Wyoming opens early LIEAP applications for priority households

Wyoming’s Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) just kicked off its early application window—reserved for seniors 60+, families with kids 5 and under, and people with disabilities. Everyone else who qualifies can start applying on October 1, and applications will be accepted through April 30, 2026.

LIEAP is federally funded and helps pay a portion of your winter home-heating costs. The office says response has been huge so far and phone lines are busy, but staff are working to get back to folks as fast as they can.

Who can apply right now

• Seniors 60 and over
• Families with children 5 and under
• Individuals with disabilities

(General applications open Oct. 1.)

How it works? If you’re approved, LIEAP pays your fuel supplier directly. Income eligibility runs up to 60% of Wyoming’s state median income. Homeowners and renters qualify—including those living in a permanently parked RV/camper. Benefit amounts depend on your energy need, income, and household size.

Key dates for payments

• Crisis benefits (for shut-offs, empty tanks, deposits, broken furnaces, etc.): available starting Oct. 1, 2025.
• Unregulated fuels (propane, pellets, wood, heating oil, coal): bills dated on or after Oct. 1, 2025 are eligible.
• Regulated utilities (natural gas, electricity): bills dated on or after Nov. 1, 2025 are eligible.

What LIEAP offers

• Seasonal Heating Assistance: Helps cover monthly heating bills for gas, electric, propane, coal, wood, and more. Priority goes to seniors, people with disabilities, and households with young children.
• Crisis Intervention & Prevention: Once approved for seasonal benefits, you may get a one-time crisis benefit for things like deposits, shut-off notices, emergency fuel, or a broken furnace. Paid directly to vendors.
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Year-round help to make your home more efficient—insulation, sealing leaks, and similar upgrades. (Uses different income guidelines than LIEAP.)

Apply online via the LIEAP website or contact the LIEAP office. Given the high call volume, online is your fastest bet. Applications for all eligible households are open Oct. 1–Apr. 30, 2026.

The original story by Denise Mestas for Wyoming News Now.