2026-2027 Season Now Open
Energy Assistance Program (EAP)
The Energy Assistance Program helps households pay for heat and electric bills. Funded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), EAP provides a one-time annual benefit to help with high energy costs. This benefit can also provide support if you are disconnected or facing disconnection.
Please note: the benefit will not cover all annual heating and electricity costs, so you should continue paying your bills regularly.
Energy Assistance Program flyerProgram StartsOctober 1, 20267:00 AM CST
Winter Protection BeginsDecember 1, 2026Indiana disconnection moratorium
Moratorium EndsMarch 15, 2027Energy Indiana
Last Day to ApplyApril 30, 20275:00 PM EST, while funding is available
Required Documents
- Current utility bill
- Proof of income for the past 90 days for all household members
- Lease or Tenant Verification Statement (if utilities are included in rent)
Please make note of your username and password to check the status of your application.
Important Payment Information
EAP benefits do not cover your entire utility bill.
To avoid disconnection:
- Continue making payments if you are able.
- Contact your utility provider to set up a payment arrangement.
- Stay in communication with your utility company while your application is being processed.
Am I Eligible?
Indiana households that make 60% of the state median income (60 SMI) or less may qualify for these benefits. See the table for a detailed breakdown of income qualifications.
How to read the table
Find your household size in the left column. If your total monthly income for all household members is at or below the amount on the right, you may qualify.
Income is checked using proof from the past 90 days for every household member, so have those documents ready.
Forms and Applications
Download What You Need
Start with the application. Add the other forms only if they apply to your situation.
EAP ApplicationProgram Year 2027 Indiana Energy Assistance Program application.Download PDF 
Tenant Verification Statement (TVS)For renters whose utilities are included in rent.Download PDF 
UIV FormSupporting income verification form.Download PDF 
Non-Household Member DeclarationFor people living at the address who are not part of the household.Download PDF 
Disability Medical StatementFor households claiming a disability or medical need.Download PDF 
Direct Benefit Payment ElectionFillable form to elect a direct benefit payment.Download PDF 
EAP Address Change FormUse if your address changed after applying.Download PDF EAP Intake SitesLocations where you can pick up or drop off an application.Download PDF Dates To Be Aware Of
- October 1, 2026
Online applications begin at 8:00 AM Eastern Time. In-person appointments begin, but you do not need an appointment to apply. You can pick up or drop off at any intake site. Application decision notifications begin.
- December 1, 2026
Indiana winter disconnection moratorium protection begins. Eligible EAP clients cannot be disconnected from electricity and heating services.
If you apply before this date, you are not protected from being disconnected and not protected under the Indiana winter disconnection moratorium.
- March 15, 2027
End of Energy Indiana winter disconnection moratorium protection.
- April 30, 2027 at 5:00 PM EST
Last day to apply for EAP assistance for the 2026-2027 funding cycle. Subject to availability of grant funding.
How long will it take to receive my assistance?
It may take 55 days to determine if you are eligible, and after your benefit has been awarded, it may take an additional 30 days for the utility company to process your benefit. Please continue to pay your utility bills while waiting for your energy assistance to appear on your account.
If you are receiving a direct pay benefit, it may take up to 120 days from the date of your benefit approval for your payment to be processed and mailed to you. Please allow 120 days from the approval date before you call to check the benefit status.
My application was denied. How do I appeal the decision?
If you have been determined ineligible for energy assistance, you have the right to appeal. You should have received an application denial form with your eligibility determination. Follow the steps below to appeal.
Step One
Send your appeal in writing to the CoAction EAP Manager within 30 days of denial. The EAP Manager reviews the appeal and makes a decision.
Step Two
If you are not satisfied with the EAP Manager's decision, you may request a formal review by the state. This request must be submitted in writing within 30 days after you receive the EAP Manager's decision. IHCDA's Community Program Manager will review the materials submitted and issue a written finding within 14 calendar days.
Step Three
If you are not satisfied with the decision of the IHCDA Program Manager, you may appeal to IHCDA's Director of Community Programs. This appeal must be submitted within 30 days, and it must include the stated reasons for your objection to the decision. Your objection must be based solely upon evidence supporting one of the following circumstances:
- Clear and substantial error or misstated facts which were relied on in making the decision being challenged
- Unfair competition or conflict of interest in the decision-making process
- An illegal, unethical or improper act
- Any other legal basis that may substantially alter the decision
You will receive written acknowledgment of the request within 7 calendar days of receipt, noting the day the request was received. The Director of Community Programs has 30 calendar days from IHCDA's receipt of the written request to review the file and make a determination. The decision of the Director of Community Programs is final.
Questions About EAP?
Northwest Indiana Reinvestment Alliance
5233 Hohman Avenue, Suite 104, Hammond, Indiana 46320
