The Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services wants to remind Kansans living on low incomes that March 31 is the last day to apply for heating assistance through the 1998 Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP).

This federally-funded program provides an annual payment to help low income households pay fuel and energy costs. The annual benefit, averaging $305, may be used entirely for heating fuel or may be split between two energy accounts such as gas and electric. LIEAP can apply toward a utility deposit if the customer is opening a new account.

Last winter, 27,497 Kansas households received LIEAP assistance. Of those households, 69 percent included an elderly or disabled member.

"LIEAP assistance often helps elderly people or those with disabilities bridge the gap and remain in independent living situations," said Rochelle Chronister, SRS Secretary. "LIEAP also helps low income families who have been making their fuel payments but who have difficulty paying higher utility bills in the winter months."

Households with low incomes must use about one-fourth of their income for utility costs, as compared to middle income households which spend only about 4 percent of their income on energy.

SRS is concerned that elderly, disabled, and unemployed families living on very low incomes may not be aware of the availability of LIEAP assistance. To be eligible, applicants must be paying on their own fuel bill and have income that does not exceed the following limits:

Interested persons may request a LIEAP application by calling toll-free 1-800-432-0043. Completed applications must be received at the local SRS office by March 31.

Page Last Updated: May 29, 2001