NJs Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Season Opens

State's DCA Encourages Eligible Residents to Apply for Utility Bill Assistance

Morristown, New Jersey - The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has officially launched the FY24 season of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as of October 1. This program, alongside others offered by the DCA, aims to provide utility bill relief to qualifying New Jersey households.

Acting Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez remarked, “We understand that there is still a need for utility assistance and DCA is here to help. Programs like LIHEAP ensure that those in need receive the assistance they require.”

LIHEAP, a federal initiative, aids households with incomes at or below 60% of the state median — for instance, a monthly income of $7,069 for a family of four. The aid covers energy costs like electric, gas, and others included in rent. Additionally, the Universal Service Fund (USF) program offers monthly credits on electric and gas bills for eligible households. To qualify for USF, households must spend above a certain percentage of their annual income on utilities.

Here's a glimpse of the FY 2024 USFHEA Income Limit for households:

• Household of 4: Monthly: $7,069 | Annual: $84,830
• Household of 8: Monthly: $9,755 | Annual: $117,065
  (Note: Complete income limit details are available upon request)

Residents can apply for LIHEAP or other related programs through the DCAid portal (www.nj.gov/dca/dcaid). The portal also includes tools to help residents determine their eligibility for other benefits. Those without computer access can reach out to 1-800-510-3102, which will direct them to community action agencies partnering with DCA for assistance. The complete list of these community organizations can be found on the DCA website.

It's crucial to note that LIHEAP applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Hence, the DCA encourages residents not to delay in submitting their applications.

Apart from these programs, DCA offers a plethora of services ranging from local government management to affordable housing and disaster recovery. The Division of Housing and Community Resources, a part of DCA, oversees the Section 8 HCV program and is devoted to uplifting communities by delivering affordable housing and vital services, with a special focus on the vulnerable and disadvantaged members of the community.