North Carolina LIEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance)
Last updated September 19, 2026 · By O.B.
The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) may provide a one-time payment directly to a North Carolina household’s heating vendor. It is not a monthly benefit.
What LIEAP may pay
For a one-person household, North Carolina’s chart lists $0 to $848 for a $400 payment, and $849 to $1,695 for a $300 payment.
For a four-person household, North Carolina’s chart lists $0 to $1,741 for a $500 payment, and $1,742 to $3,483 for a $400 payment.
Maximum countable monthly income, regular LIEAP, FY2026 (130% of the federal poverty level)
These are North Carolina’s published monthly limits. The chart continues through household size 26.
| Household size | Maximum countable monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,695 |
| 2 | $2,291 |
| 3 | $2,887 |
| 4 | $3,483 |
| 5 | $4,079 |
| 6 | $4,675 |
| 7 | $5,270 |
| 8 | $5,866 |
Maximum countable monthly income, special population group, FY2026 (150% of the federal poverty level)
These are North Carolina’s published monthly limits. The chart continues through household size 26.
| Household size | Maximum countable monthly income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,956 |
| 2 | $2,644 |
| 3 | $3,331 |
| 4 | $4,019 |
| 5 | $4,706 |
| 6 | $5,394 |
| 7 | $6,081 |
| 8 | $6,769 |
December applicants and the special population group are different
The December application window, December 1 to 31, is for households including a person age 60 or older, or a person receiving disability services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services. Everyone else may apply January 1 to March 31, or until funds are exhausted.
The higher income limit is for North Carolina’s special population group: a household with someone age 65 or older or deemed disabled through Adult Services. A 62-year-old may apply in December but is not automatically in the special population group.
How to apply
Contact your local county Department of Social Services for application dates and details, or apply online through the ePASS website. You’ll typically need to provide identification, proof of address, income verification, and a copy of your heating bill.
What we could not verify
These are North Carolina’s published FY2026 figures. Countable income is not the same as gross pay, and the county Department of Social Services decides what counts. Funds can run out before March 31, so applying early matters. The county DSS makes the final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LIEAP a recurring benefit?
LIEAP provides a one-time vendor payment to help with heating costs, rather than an ongoing monthly benefit.
When can seniors apply for LIEAP?
Households with a member aged 60 or older, or receiving certain disability services, may apply December 1 through 31. Other households apply January 1 through March 31, or until funds run out.
Where do I apply for NC LIEAP?
Online through ePASS or in person at your local county Department of Social Services.
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Check the official program page →Related programs
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