SHREVEPORT, La. — As summer heat continues to drive up electricity usage, Louisiana residents may be eligible for financial assistance through the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) is reminding customers that applications are now open for summer cooling assistance, which runs through September 30.
LIHEAP helps qualifying households cover the cost of home energy bills, including summer electricity expenses. In 2023, nearly 100,000 Louisiana households received assistance through the program, with an average benefit of $474 per household.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Meet specific income requirements (at or below 60% of the state’s median income)
- Be responsible for home energy costs
- Be at risk of disconnection or experiencing a service interruption
Required Documentation Includes:
- Photo ID (for all household members 18 and older)
- Social Security cards (for all household members)
- Current utility bills (from the last 30 days)
- Proof of income (recent pay stubs or documentation of unearned income)
- Proof of address (if different from ID)
- Section 8/subsidized housing documentation (if applicable)
To check eligibility and learn more about required documents, visit SWEPCO.com/billhelp.
To apply for LIHEAP, residents must contact the Community Action Agency that serves their parish. A complete directory of agencies is available at lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance.
This program is funded and administered by the Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) and supported by local utility partners like SWEPCO to help reduce energy burdens for low-income families during the state’s peak cooling season.