The Ohio Department of Development and the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc. are again partnering to help residents beat the heat through the Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program (HEAP). Running through Sept. 30, the program provides vital relief to income-eligible Ohioans who need help paying electric bills, purchasing air conditioners or fans, or repairing central air conditioning systems.
In 2024, more than 44,000 households statewide received assistance totaling $13.5 million. This year, Ohioans can apply through a new, streamlined online portal at energyhelp.ohio.gov. Registration requires creating an OHID account and takes less than seven minutes.
Eligible households include those with a disconnect notice, shut-off status, new electric service needs, or members 60 years or older who have medical documentation requiring cooling for health reasons. Common qualifying conditions include asthma, COPD, and other respiratory illnesses. Income limits apply—for example, a family of four must earn no more than $56,262.50 annually.
To apply, clients must schedule an appointment with their local energy assistance provider. Required documents include energy bills, income verification, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and medical documentation if applicable.
For help, call the Area Office on Aging at 419-382-0624, visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov, or call (800) 282-0880.
