The year 2020 has been a challenging one for many of us; with winter fast approaching, many Maryland residents are wondering how they are going to pay their fuel deliveries as temperatures dip and heating bills rise.
If you need help paying your heating bill this winter, consider applying for assistance from the Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) – one of four federally funded grants administered by Maryland’s Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP).
Here are a few common questions and answers about MEAP to help you get the application process started.
1. What Is MEAP?
MEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households with their home energy bills (the program is nationally known as LIHEAP, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program).
The MEAP program offers several types of help for eligible applicants, including:
- Bill payment assistance
- Energy crisis assistance
- Weatherization and energy-related home repairs
Payments for fuel are made by MEAP to the fuel supplier/utility company on your behalf.
2. What Are The MEAP Program Requirements?
To qualify for MEAP, you must be a resident of Maryland and you must need financial assistance with home energy costs.
A person who participates or has family members who participate in certain other benefit programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or certain needs-tested Veterans benefits may be automatically eligible for MEAP.
To be eligible for MEAP, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:
| Household Size* | Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $22,330 |
| 2 | $30,170 |
| 3 | $38,010 |
| 4 | $45,850 |
| 5 | $53,690 |
| 6 | $61,530 |
| 7 | $69,370 |
| 8 | $77,210 |
*For households with more than eight people, add $7,840 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.
Please note that additional criteria may need to be met for MEAP eligibility.
3. How Do I Apply For MEAP?
- To apply for LIHEAP online, please visit the Office of Home Energy Programs Applying for Energy Assistance page.
- To find a local office, please visit the Department of Human Resources Local Home Energy Program Office page or call 1-800-332-6347.
Please note that home visits can also be arranged for senior citizens or other persons with special medical needs.
Stay safe and warm this winter with assistance from MEAP and reliable propane and heating oil deliveries in Maryland from Q-Dog. Please contact us today if you have any questions – your safety is always our priority!