The increase in temperatures during the summer of 2025 and rising electricity costs have led multiple states to activate specific energy assistance programs. These programs, derived from the federal LIHEAP or local versions, aim to fund air conditioning use. The stated goal is to prevent blackouts and mitigate the effects of severe heat waves.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, provide direct subsidies, utility bill credits, or even the distribution of equipment like air conditioning units. They primarily target low-income households. While operating under federal guidelines, each state sets its own application periods, aid amounts, and eligibility requirements tailored to local conditions.
Active State Programs for Summer 2025
Let’s take a quick review of every active program as of today, so you can get a hint of them and move forward to apply. Some programs are active while funds last, so, the earlier you apply, the better the chance to be selected.
Alabama (LIHEAP Cooling)
This program accepts applications from June 1 to September 30, 2025. It covers cooling expenses for households earning up to 150% of the federal poverty level. Aid amounts range from a minimum of $320 to a maximum of $520. The reference website is liheapch.acf.hhs.gov.
Applicants must contact the state’s Human Services or designated local agency. Required documents include a recent utility bill, proof of income, and residency verification. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted.
Arizona LIHEAP
Arizona’s cooling program runs from April through October or November, depending on the county. Eligibility extends to households earning up to 60% of the state median income or 150% of the federal poverty level. Financial aid varies between $160–$640 or $480–$1,200, based on location.
Residents must verify county-specific dates. Applicants should contact the state agency or local LIHEAP provider, (https://des.az.gov/liheap). Required documentation includes a utility bill, income verification, valid ID, and proof of residence.
California LIHEAP
California offers a year-round cooling assistance program for households earning up to 60% of the state median income. Subsidies range from $288 to $990, depending on need and family size.
Applications are submitted through local energy assistance agencies, typically housed in county health or social services departments. Required documents include a current electric bill, income verification for all household members, official ID, and proof of residency.
District of Columbia LIHEAP
DC’s cooling assistance program operates year-round. Eligibility requires household income at or below 60% of the DC median income. Grants range from $250 to $1,800, based on individual assessments.
Residents must contact local human services or community offices. The process requires submitting a current energy bill, household income proof, and DC residency verification. Applications are processed in the order received until funds are exhausted. Find more at https://doee.dc.gov/liheap.
Florida LIHEAP
Florida’s cooling program runs from April through September. Eligible households earn up to 60% of the state median income or 150% of the federal poverty level for large families. Aid amounts vary between $400 and $1,350.
Applications can be submitted online or by phone through the Department of Social Services. Requirements include a recent utility bill, complete income verification, and valid ID. Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
State-Specific Requirements and Application Processes
Georgia (LIHEAP Cooling)
Georgia’s program operates from April 1 to July 31, 2025. The income threshold for eligibility is up to 60% of the state median income. For 2025, this equals $33,038 annually for an individual and $73,700 for a five-person household.
Priority applications for seniors (65+) or those with certified medical conditions opened on April 1. General applications began on May 1. Contact your local Community Action Agency. Required documents: utility bill, income proof, Social Security numbers, citizenship, and residency verification.
Hawaii (H-HEAP Cooling)
Hawaii offers a one-time “Energy Credit” for cooling, issued in June, for households below the state income level. The “Energy Crisis Intervention” program is available year-round. The “Energy Credit” application window ran from June 3–28, 2025.
“Energy Credit” applications are accepted only in June. For “Crisis Intervention”, apply anytime. Contact the Consumer Advocacy Division. Requirements: utility bill, income proof, and, in some cases, medical justification for cooling needs.
Nebraska LIHEAP
Nebraska’s LIHEAP provides cooling assistance from June 1 to August 31. Eligibility extends to households earning up to 150% of the federal poverty level. The program also covers AC repairs or leaks up to $750.
Apply online, by phone, or in person at local DHHS offices. Basic documentation includes an energy bill, household income proof, and ID. Crisis assistance and energy efficiency upgrades are also available. Go to https://www.tdhca.texas.gov/comprehensive-energy-assistance-program-ceap.
Oklahoma LIHEAP
Oklahoma’s LIHEAP cooling program is expected to launch on July 15, 2025. The ECAP program, active since April, offers bill payment and crisis assistance.
Apply online via https://www.okdhslive.org/. Required documents: current utility bill, Social Security number, photo ID, and income verification. The program remains open until funds are depleted.
Texas (CEAP)
Texas’ Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) operates year-round. It provides financial aid and, in some cases, free air conditioning units. Eligibility reaches up to 150% of the federal poverty level. The program is integrated with LIHEAP Texas.
Contact local agencies or your utility provider. Requirements: recent utility bill, income proof. Active enrollment in SNAP or Medicaid may expedite approval.
Oregon OHA Energy Assistance
Oregon’s OHA Cooling Program distributes portable AC units and air filters to at-risk households (low-income, heat/smoke exposure). Funding is limited per season.
Applications typically open in spring. Contact local public health or social services agencies for direct aid or cooling kits. Find more at https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/energy-weatherization/.
Illinois LIHEAP
Illinois’ LIHEAP Summer Cooling program launched in May 2025. Eligibility extends up to 200% of the federal poverty level—one of the highest thresholds. Benefits include bill assistance and potential AC units for qualified cases.
Apply early, preferably in May. Contact your county’s energy assistance agency. Standard documents: utility bill, valid ID, and household income proof. Check https://dceo.illinois.gov/communityservices/utilitybillassistance.html for more information.