Guide for 2025 LIHEAP Eligibility & Benefits in Tennessee

LIHEAP Overview

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded government benefit program that helps with energy costs, including utility bills and emergency energy assistance.

LIHEAP assistance is typically available in three forms:
  • Regular LIHEAP: Provides help with heating or cooling costs, usually as a one-time payment directly to a utility company.
  • Crisis LIHEAP: Helps households facing an immediate energy emergency, such as a broken heater in winter, a utility shutoff notice, or running out of fuel.
  • Weatherization Assistance Program: A separate but related program that helps improve energy efficiency through home upgrades, like insulation and heating system repairs.

LIHEAP serves millions of households each year, but not everyone who qualifies receives benefits. States receive a fixed amount of funding annually and distribute it until the money runs out. This means that not all eligible households will receive assistance, so applying early is critical when the application period opens.

LIHEAP payments are typically made directly to utility companies. However, for renters whose heating costs are included in their rent and who do not have a separate utility payment, some states may offer direct payments or other forms of assistance. In these cases, additional eligibility criteria may apply.
This information was collected from the LIHEAP Clearinghouse but is not official. This website is not affiliated with any government organization or LIHEAP or energy assistance program.

LIHEAP Program Dates in Tennessee

LIHEAP benefits may not be available year-round. Heating assistance is typically available in fall and winter. Cooling assistance is usually offered in summer. Crisis assistance is available only in emergencies, such as a broken furnace or utility shutoff notice.

  • whatshotHeating Assistance Program
    Year-Round
  • airCooling Assistance Program
    Year-Round
  • offline_boltCrisis Assistance Program
    Year-Round

Note: These are program dates, not necessarily application deadlines. Funding is limited, and some states or local agencies may stop accepting applications earlier if funds run out. Check with your local LIHEAP office for exact application deadlines and to apply as early as possible.

What is the Maximum LIHEAP Benefit Amount in Tennessee?

LIHEAP benefits are typically calculated based on factors such as household income, household size, and the type of fuel used for heating or cooling.
Maximum LIHEAP Benefits
  • whatshot Heating Maximum Benefit
    $1,000
  • air Cooling Maximum Benefit
    $1,000
Minimum LIHEAP Benefits
  • whatshot Heating Minimum Benefit
    $600
  • air Cooling Minimum Benefit
    $600
Crisis LIHEAP Maximum Benefits
  • offline_bolt Crisis Maximum Benefit
    $1,000

What is the Income Limit for LIHEAP in Tennessee?

LIHEAP typically considers everyone living at your address as part of your household, even if you do not share most expenses. This means roommates who are covered by the same utility bill are counted as part of the same LIHEAP household. Other benefit programs like SNAP define households differently.

To qualify, your household's gross monthly income (total income before taxes) must be below the limits listed below.

  • person1 Person
    $2,557 / month
  • people2 People
    $3,344 / month
  • people3 People
    $4,131 / month
  • people4 People
    $4,918 / month
  • people5 People
    $5,705 / month
  • people6 People
    $6,492 / month

What is the Asset Limit for LIHEAP in Tennessee?

There is no asset limit for LIHEAP in Tennessee.
Want to Apply for LIHEAP? Find your local LIHEAP application here: