Energy Assistance Applications Still Open—Funds Will Be Distributed Once Available
The federal government has been shut down since October 1, and it is unclear when the government may reopen. If the shutdown lasts until November 1, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding could be delayed into December. Each additional day of the shutdown delays this funding for eligible households. Semcac is processing Energy Assistance applications, so they are ready when federal funds arrive. Households should continue to apply, but due to funding delays, we encourage applicants to contact their utility vendor for options such as payment arrangements, minimal fills, and applying for the Cold Weather Rule.
The Energy Assistance Program is a federally funded program administered through the Minnesota Department of Commerce. The program provides financial assistance to help with household winter heating bills. Both homeowners and renters may apply. Assets, such as the home, are not considered in determining eligibility. A household must complete the application process to determine eligibility and the amount of their utility assistance. Electronic signatures are not accepted, please sign the application before you send. Financial assistance payments are made directly to the household’s utility company.
Income guidelines below.
Maximum Energy Assistance Program Income Guidelines (Oct. 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026)
For households size 1-16, based on 50% State Median Income (SMI). For households size 17-20, based on Federal Poverty Guidelines, below.
| Household Size | Annual Income | 1 Month Max. |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $37,439 | $3,119 |
| 2 | $48,959 | $4,079 |
| 3 | $60,479 | $5,039 |
| 4 | $71,999 | $5,999 |
| 5 | $83,518 | $6,959 |
| 6 | $95,038 | $7,919 |
| 7 | $97,198 | $8,099 |
| 8 | $99,358 | $8,279 |
| 9 | $101,518 | $8,459 |
| 10 | $103,678 | $8,639 |
| 11 | $105,838 | $8,819 |
| 12 | $107,998 | $8,999 |
| 13 | $110,158 | $9,179 |
| 14 | $112,318 | $9,359 |
| 15 | $114,478 | $9,539 |
| 16 | $116,638 | $9,719 |
| 17 | $118,798 | $9,899 |
| 18 | $120,958 | $10,079 |
| 19 | $126,116 | $10,509 |
| 20 | $132,165 | $11,013 |
Emergency heating system repair or replacement (to owner-occupied EAP eligible households, only). To receive assistance a household must apply for the Energy Assistance Program. Click here for all energy assistance applications.
eap@semcac.org or Call 1-800-944-3281 for an application or with questions, or use our Semcac Message Center. If you have additional questions or concerns for the Department of Commerce, please visit their website, here.
Grant Information
- Grant Program: LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
- Grantee Agency: Semcac
- Address: 204 S Elm Street, P.O. Box 549, Rushford, MN 55971
- Phone: 1-800-944-3281
- Email: eap@semcac.org
Leadership & Oversight
- Executive Leadership: Jennifer Hengel, Executive Director
- Grant Oversight: Melissa F, Energy and Housing Director and Nicole P, Energy Assistance Program Manager
To view a list of EAP service providers, listed by county, visit this page on their website.