For Immediate Release
January 13, 2010
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LIHEAP Deadline Extended, Cash Grants Increased 

HARRISBURG – Cash grants for Pennsylvania's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will increase and the heating assistance programs will be extended for the 2009-10 heating season, according to Sen. Chuck McIlhinney (R-Bucks). 

Streamlining the Department of Public Welfare's computer system has increased efficiency and reduced fraud and abuse, enabling the state to increase the amount of each cash grant by up to $100. Cash grants are based on income, family size, type of heating fuel and region, McIlhinney said. 

The state is also extending the deadline to apply for LIHEAP from March 15 to April 2. The Department of Public Welfare expects to assist approximately 600,000 families with cash grants during the 2009-2010 program year.  

Household sizes and income limits for LIHEAP's 2009-10 season are: 

1 -- $16,245
2 -- $21,855
3 -- $27,465
4 -- $33,075
5 -- $38,685
6 -- $44,295
7 -- $49,905
8 -- $55,515

(For each additional person add $5,610). 

Additional information and applications for LIHEAP assistance are available online via the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) website at www.compass.state.pa.us. Applications are also available at county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or community action agencies. Applicants may also call 1-866-857-7095.

CONTACT: Heather Cevasco (215) 489-5000