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Leftover LIHEAP funds used to give Pennsylvania enrollees a $100 supplemental benefit

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The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services said the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which is entirely funded by federal dollars, started with $232 million ahead of the program’s 2025-2026 season, which ended in early May.

“We know that even though winter is over, many Pennsylvanians may still need assistance with utility bills from last season. LIHEAP helps some of the Commonwealth’s most vulnerable citizens – children, older Pennsylvanians, people with disabilities, and low-income families – make ends meet and keep their homes safer, and we are pleased to be able to offer this one-time supplemental payment to LIHEAP households,” said Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh in a release.

More than 278,000 households received benefits over the winter, but the $100 supplement will target 193,000 households with at least one family member who has a disability, is age 60 or older, or is a child under age 6. Families don’t need to apply, and the payments will go directly to their utility company or home heating provider.

The minimum LIHEAP cash grant is $200, and the maximum is $1,000. Applicants can also secure crisis assistance and weatherization grants.

Receiving the $100 LIHEAP supplemental benefit will not impact future program eligibility. Pennsylvania received $231 million in LIHEAP funds for the 2024-2025 season.

The average benefit that year was $336 for 303,000 households.

Source: PA Capital-Star

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