Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Low-income Delaware households may be eligible for help with energy costs to warm or cool their homes, especially during extreme weather, through the Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP).
The Division of Social Services uses federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help make energy costs more affordable for eligible Delaware households. Community partner agencies statewide, including Catholic Charities, help administer this program to help families access these critical services. DEAP is a supplemental program. While it can greatly reduce household energy expenses, it may not cover all heating or cooling costs.
Types of Energy Assistance
Eligibility is based on income, capped at 60% of Delaware’s State Median Income (SMI) after federal and local taxes.
Winter Heating Assistance
Available October 1 – March 31
Helps both homeowners and renters cover seasonal heating costs. Eligible energy sources include:
- Electricity
- Natural gas
- Oil
- Kerosene
- Propane
- Coal
- Wood
Crisis Assistance
Available Year-Round
Provides emergency help for households experiencing:
- A utility shut-off or disconnection notice
- Fuel tank level at or below 10%
- Past-due energy bills
This support may be used alongside Winter Heating Assistance.
Summer Cooling Assistance
Provides a one-time payment to help offset summer electricity costs. Households with demonstrated need may also qualify for a free window air conditioner.
Eligibility requires prior application for LIHEAP during the program year.
Weatherization Assistance
The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) offers a free Weatherization Assistance Program to help reduce home energy costs by improving energy efficiency. Services may include:
- Insulation and weather-stripping
- HVAC system upgrades
- Window and door improvements
For more information, call (302) 735-3480.
How to Apply
Online
Use the ASSIST Self-Service Portal to apply for LIHEAP and other state programs any time, from any device with internet access.
By phone or in person
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Wilmington
19 Lambson Lane
Rosehill Community Center
Suite A109
New Castle, DE 19720
- New Castle County: (302) 654-9295
- Kent County: (302) 674-1782
- Sussex County: (302) 856-6310
First State Community Action Agency
308 N. Railroad Avenue
Georgetown, DE 19947
1-800-372-2240
Weatherization
Contact DNREC at 302-735-3480 and ask for the Weatherization Assistance Program.
For more information about the Delaware Energy Assistance Program, contact the Division of Social Services at 302-255-9875.
Disclaimer
This website is supported by Grant Number 93.568 from the Office of Community Service, Division of Energy Assistance within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Office of Community Service, Division of Energy Assistance.
