The purpose of CEAP
The Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP) is a federally funded utility assistance program. CEAP assists qualifying low-income households with energy-related expenses. Educating consumers on how to reduce, manage and control energy costs aims to save consumers money, reduce energy waste, and build habits that promote energy efficiency.
CEAP offers various forms of assistance
- Bill Payment Assistance: CEAP provides direct financial assistance to eligible households to help pay their energy bills, reducing the risk of utility disconnection.
- Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP): ECIP is part of CEAP and offers emergency assistance to eligible households facing a crisis, such as a utility disconnection or a broken heating or cooling system.
- Weatherization Services: CEAP may also provide weatherization services to eligible households, including home energy audits, insulation, air sealing, and other energy-saving measures. These services help improve energy efficiency and reduce long-term energy costs.
What are the qualifications for CEAP?
To qualify for CEAP in Texas, individuals and families must meet specific criteria based on income, household size, and other factors. The program typically prioritizes assistance for vulnerable populations, such as older people, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children.
To apply for CEAP in Texas, interested individuals can contact their local Community Action Agency (CAA). These agencies are responsible for administering the program at the local level. As applicants, consumers should be prepared to provide documentation to determine eligibility. This documentation may include:
- Proof of income
- Identification (valid Texas DL, Passport)
- A recent utility bill with your name on it
Program guidelines and application processes may vary slightly between different areas within Texas. You should contact your local CAA or visit the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) website for detailed information on CEAP in your area.
Is LIHEAP the same as CEAP?
CEAP involves the integration of all Low Income Home Energy Assistance programs. LIHEAP-funded programs cover all 254 counties of the state. LIHEAP funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. LIHEAP is distributed to states, territories, and tribal governments to administer the program locally.
Types of low-income home energy assistance programs
- Heating Assistance: LIHEAP helps eligible households with their heating cost during the winter months. It provides financial assistance to cover heating bills, including payments made directly to utility companies or fuel vendors on behalf of the households.
- Cooling Assistance: Some states offer LIHEAP-funded programs that assist low-income households with their cooling costs during the hot summer months. This assistance can help with the repair of AC units and/or fans, payment of your electricity bill.
- Crisis Intervention: LIHEAP-funded programs often aim to address emergency situations. These crisis intervention programs provide immediate assistance to homes that are threatened with power disconnection or a heating or cooling emergency.
- Weatherizing Services: LIHEAP funds are provided to support weatherizing services for eligible households. These services aim to improve how energy efficient a home is to reduce long-term energy costs by providing home energy audits, insulation, air sealing, and other energy-saving measures.
These programs provide information and resources to help families reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. As with other federally funded programs, you must meet eligibility requirements to receive energy assistance. Depending on the specific program and local guidelines, eligibility may differ from location to location.
Eligibility criteria for LIHEAP
- Income: Generally, LIHEAP programs in Texas provide assistance for households with incomes at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. Income requirements may vary between programs and location. Income limits are based on the size of the family and the households gross income (the income before taxes).
- Residency: To qualify for LIHEAP in Texas, you must reside in Texas and provide proof, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
- Citizenship or Eligible Non-Citizen Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens. Qualified non-citizens include lawful permanent residents, refugees, and individuals with certain immigration status.
- Household Size and Makeup: LIHEAP programs consider the size and who is living in the household. This includes the number of individuals living in the household, such as adults, children, older individuals, and individuals with disabilities.
The best way to determine your eligibility and apply for LIHEAP or any other energy bill assistance programs in Texas is to contact your local Community Action Agency (CAA) or the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). They can provide you with the most accurate and up to date information about the eligibility criteria and application processes.
How Pogo can help
Pogo is here to help. We offer pay-as-you-go electric services for Texans. Pay-as-you-go puts you in the driver’s seat, so you can better control your electric usage and spend. We do not charge you a deposit for electric service, and we do not believe in service cancellation fees, re-connect fees or long term contracts. Every penny counts, and we want you to keep as much of your money as possible. Learn more about Pogo Energy and how we can help you stay within budget on your electric bill.