Winter can be a trying season for many because of increasing home energy bills. According to the Energy Information Administration, the average household will see a higher energy bill compared to last winter due to price increases and predictions of a harsher winter. Benefits.gov is here to help you in your search for energy assistance. In this article, we share 5 tips to help with energy assistance:

Reduce Home Energy Costs Yourself

Even with the help of government assistance, the costs of heating your home in the winter can be high. To reduce home energy costs, here are a few tips from the U.S. Department of Energy:

• Lower the temperature while you are away. Lowering your thermostat 7-10 degrees for at least 8 hours a day can save you up to 10% on heating per year.
• Cut back hot water usage. To save hot water, turn off the faucet if you are not using it, shorten hot showers, fix leaky faucets, and install low-flow fixtures.
• Check your heating ducts and vents for air leaks. A leak can cause your heating system to work harder and cost you extra. Check for holes that need to be repaired and seal them or get help from a professional.

Learn about the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

The Low-Income Housing Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), offered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), helps with home energy bills, weatherization, and minor energy-related home repairs. You may be automatically eligible to participate if you receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Supplemental Security Income, or a part of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. LIHEAP has a rolling application process that closes when government funding is gone. For more information about eligibility and the application process, contact your local LIHEAP office.

Read about the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

The Weatherization Assistance Program, offered by the U.S. Department of Energy, helps make homes more efficient. Improvements aim to reduce the cost of home energy bills. WAP can help you save an average of $283 a year. View the How to Apply for Weatherization Assistance page for application information.

Use Our Housing & Public Utilities Category

Browse our Housing & Public Utilities category of benefits and filter by state or subcategory to narrow your search. As winter approaches, we hope this is helpful in your journey to preparedness.

Find Benefits Using Our Benefit Finder

Use the Benefit Finder questionnaire to find government assistance you may be eligible to receive. When filling out the questionnaire, you will answer a series of confidential questions about your current situation. Once you receive your results from the Benefit Finder, you will be directed to next steps to apply for benefits on the agency website.

Author: MI Asian Staff