Connecticut Heating Assistance Programs: LIHEAP, CEAP, and Emergency Help

Connecticut has multiple programs to help residents pay heating oil bills. These programs exist specifically for situations where the cost of staying warm becomes a genuine hardship. If you or someone you know is struggling with heating costs this winter, here's what's available — and how to access it quickly.

LIHEAP: The Federal Heating Assistance Program

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is federally funded and administered by Connecticut's Department of Social Services (DSS). It provides direct payment to heating oil dealers on behalf of qualifying households.

Income eligibility (approximate, 2025–2026):

• Household of 1: up to ~$3,470/month gross income
• Household of 2: up to ~$4,680/month
• Household of 4: up to ~$7,100/month

These figures are approximately 60% of State Median Income. Exact figures change annually — verify at ct.gov/dss or by calling 211.

Benefit amount: LIHEAP typically provides $300–$800 in heating assistance per qualifying household per heating season, paid directly to your heating oil dealer. The exact amount depends on household size, income, and available program funding.

How to apply:

1. Apply through DSS online at connect.ct.gov
2. Apply by calling 211 (Connecticut's 211 helpline connects you to all available assistance programs)
3. Apply in person at your local Community Action Agency (see below)

Application period: LIHEAP typically opens in mid-November and runs through May or until funds are exhausted. Apply early — funding is limited and programs can close before season's end.

CEAP: Connecticut Energy Assistance Program

Connecticut's Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is administered locally through Community Action Agencies throughout the state. CEAP distributes LIHEAP funds and may also administer additional state and local funding:

• Hartford area: Community Renewal Team (CRT) — (860) 560-5800
• New Haven area: Community Action Agency of New Haven — (203) 387-7700
• Bridgeport/Fairfield area: Community Action Unlimited — (203) 334-7711
• Eastern CT: Thames Valley Council for Community Action — (860) 887-2607
• All locations: Call 211 to be connected to the agency serving your area

Emergency Heating Assistance

If you've run out of heating oil or are at risk of running out within 48 hours, emergency heating assistance is available through a different track than standard LIHEAP:

• Call 211 immediately and state that you have a heating emergency
• Emergency assistance can often arrange delivery within 24–48 hours through a vendor contracted with the assistance program
• You do not need to have previously applied for LIHEAP to request emergency assistance — applications and assistance can happen simultaneously in an emergency

CT Weatherization Assistance Program

The Connecticut Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides free weatherization improvements to income-eligible households — insulation, air sealing, furnace tune-ups, and heating system replacements. Unlike LIHEAP (which pays for fuel), WAP reduces your fuel consumption permanently. A weatherized home may use 20–30% less heating oil annually.

WAP is administered through the same Community Action Agencies as CEAP. Eligibility criteria are similar to LIHEAP. Apply through 211 or your local Community Action Agency.

Energize CT Income-Qualified Programs

Energize CT (Connecticut's energy efficiency partnership) offers enhanced rebates and free services for income-qualified households, beyond the standard rebate programs available to all CT residents:

• Free home energy assessments
• Free insulation and air sealing in many cases
• Enhanced rebates on high-efficiency oil heating equipment
• No-cost heat pump water heaters and other equipment

Apply through energizect.com or call (877) 738-4677.

Related: CT Heating Oil Rebates and Efficiency Programs  ·  Heating Oil Assistance Programs in Connecticut: LIHEAP, CEAP & More