Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) now only requires proof of one month’s income. The deadline for Households to apply for EAP Benefits has been extended to July 1, 2020.
Emergency Crisis funds can now pay on past due energy bills. This includes heat, electric and fuel tanks at 20% or lower.
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. A household must complete the application process to determine eligibility and the amount of their utility assistance. Financial assistance payments are made directly to the household’s utility company. Income guidelines are 50% of the State of Minnesota Median Income.
Maximum Energy Assistance Program Income Guidelines
for Apr 1, 2020 – Sept 30, 2020
Based on 50% SMI or 110%* of federal poverty guidelines, whichever is greater.
| Household Size | Annual Income | 1 Month Max. | Household Size | Annual Income | 1 Month Max. | |
| 1 | $27,047 | $2,253 | 11 | $76,461 | $6,371 | |
| 2 | $35,370 | $2,947 | 12 | $78,021 | $6,501 | |
| 3 | $43,692 | $3,641 | 13 | $79,581 | $6,631 | |
| 4 | $52,014 | $4,334 | 14 | $81,142 | $6,761 | |
| 5 | $60,336 | $5,028 | 15 | $82,7025* | $6,891 | |
| 6 | $68,658 | $5,721 | 16 | $86,669 | $7,222 | |
| 7 | $70,219 | $5,851 | 17 | $91,531 | $7,627 | |
| 8 | $71,779 | $5,981 | 18 | $96,393 | $8,032 | |
| 9 | $73,340 | $6,111 | 19 | $101,255 | $8,437 | |
| 10 | $74,900 | $6,241 | 20 | $106,117 | $8,843 |
- 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. The latest EAP application is posted here.
Call 1-800-944-3281 for an application, or use our Semcac Message Center.
If you have additional questions or concerns for the Department of Commerce, please visit their website, here.
- To view a list of EAP service providers, listed by county, visit this page on their website.