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January 17, 2001 - Applications now being taken for Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP); benefit levels to increase substantially
In light of the extreme cold weather conditions earlier this winter and the fast-increasing cost of natural gas, Department of Social and Rehabilitation (SRS) Secretary Janet Schalansky said today she was pleased to announce a significant increase in funds available for winter heating assistance.
Secretary Schalansky said the agency expects a 31 percent increase in the average benefit available for qualifying households in the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) this year. The increase would mean an average energy benefit of $516 for 2001, up from an average of $394 last year.
"We anticipate both an increase in the number of persons applying for LIEAP assistance and an increase in the average benefit," Schalansky said. "During this time of high energy costs, we are glad we are able to increase the benefit for low-income households to help them make ends meet."
Applications for LIEAP are being accepted at SRS offices beginning this week. The program helps qualifying households pay home energy costs through an annual benefit to assist in buying heating and cooling energy. SRS expects about 31,000 households will receive LIEAP assistance this year, up from 26,000 in 2000.
The 2001 program began January 16 and runs through March 30. During this time, applications will be accepted at all local SRS offices across the 105 counties in Kansas. Applications will also be available at over 300 helping agencies across the state and at more that 450 utility vendors in Kansas. Applications may also be obtained by calling the agency's toll free hot line at 1-800-432-0043.
In order to quality for LIEAP, applicants must be responsible for payment of heating bills. Income eligibility guidelines are set at 130 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
The following chart shows the income guidelines:
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Household
size
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3-month
income limit (before deductions)
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1
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$2,714
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2
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$3,656
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3
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$4,599
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4
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$5,541
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5
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$6,484
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6
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$7,426
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7
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$8,369
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8
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$9,311
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Benefit levels vary according to five factors: household income, number of household members, type of dwelling, type of heating fuel, and relative utility rates changed by the fuel provider.
The LIEAP block grant is subject to changing federal appropriations each year. In 2000, Kansas received $12.9 million for the program but in 2001, about $16 million was appropriated.
Page Last Updated: May 29, 2001