FAQs

Click here to apply online for non-crisis assistance. If you are unable to complete an online application, you can download (LIHEAP Application) or pick up an application at your nearest community center (Community Center Locations) or at the administrative office at 4523 Plank Road. A valid photo ID and the requested documents must be submitted with the application.

All online applications are reviewed for completeness by appointment date and processed on a first-come, first-served basis. If eligible, a benefit letter acknowledging the benefit amount to be applied to the customer’s account will be sent by email. Applications missing required document(s) will receive an email notification informing you of the missing document(s) that must be submitted within ten days.

All check stubs within the previous 30 days, W-2 tax withholding statement, social security award letter, government employee pensions, SSI award letter, insurance or annuity payments, most recent tax return if self-employed), net rent income, documentation of unemployment benefits, royalties, workers compensation benefits, alimony, net game winnings, railroad retirement, regular contributions that are not loans to be repaid, veterans benefits, bank statements, and private pensions

Yes, you may be eligible as your current income, or the lack thereof will be taken into consideration at the time of your application.

Yes, you need to submit current eligibility documentation at the time of service. Each federal program administered by the Office of Social Services has its own eligibility and submission requirements.

Senior citizens and/or disabled citizen can call the appointment information line at 225-427-8822. Information regarding documents needed to process an application will be given, and an appointment will be provided for you to come in to complete your application. If you need assistance with your application, ask for a case manager.

Yes, you can have someone pick up an application from the nearest community center (Community Center Locations) or at the administrative office at 4523 Plank Rd.

Acceptable and valid proofs of identity include a state-issued driver’s license, state- issued identification card, U.S. passport, U.S. military ID, or Native American tribal photo ID. If ID is expired it is acceptable.

An active energy account is an account that has not been finalized (permanently closed) by the energy vendor.

Is an estimate of the average monthly utility bills (except telephone) for an energy conscious household. This estimate considers only utilities paid directly by the tenant. If all utilities are included in the rent, there is not a utility allowance. Utility allowances vary by unit type and are listed on the tenant worksheet or HAP contract.

If you are receiving any type of housing assistance from HUD, Section 8, etc. for subsidized housing tenants/residents, refer to the lease agreement. The utility allowance amount should be indicated on the lease agreement or tenant worksheet.

At this time applications may not be returned by email or fax. Application with all requested documentation must returned to your nearest community center and placed in the drop box located outside the building or the drop box at the administrative office on Plank Rd.

You must have the contributor complete a Statement of Contributions, and you must complete a Zero Income form for all household members 18 and over without income. These forms are available by request from any community center or downloaded on the Office of Social Services website. (LIHEAP Form).

Login to your LIHEAP Hancock account and check the “Document” section for a Certified Client Qual Notice or Denial Letter.