The high energy cost grant program for disabled veterans

The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is administered at the state and local level. To apply for weatherization assistance, contact your state weatherization agency.

How Does the WAP Application Process Work?

The following steps outline how to apply for WAP services.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility for Weatherization Services

One of the primary factors affecting eligibility is income. Under DOE guidelines, households at or below 200% of the poverty income guidelines are considered eligible for weatherization services or if they receive Supplemental Security Income or Aid to Families with Dependent Children. In addition, each state or territory may elect to use the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) criteria of 60% of state-median income.

WAP Grantees also give priority to the elderly, families with one or more members with a disability, families with children, or high-energy users. Please use the map below to visit your specific state, territory, or tribe and review the identified eligibility guidelines.

Step 2: Identify Your Local Weatherization Provider

The state, tribal, or territorial website will provide a list of the local organizations or providers that offer weatherization services under its "How to Apply" section. Some states offer an online application direct from their website, but most guide you to contact the local providers. This list is usually organized by county and provides an address, phone number, and/or website.

Step 3: Complete the Weatherization Application Process

Once you have identified your local weatherization provider, contact them to start the application process. Your local provider will require proof of income for the prior year, such as pay stubs or social security payments. For information on proof of income, please refer to HHS' Poverty Income Guidelines and Definition of Income. 

Step 4: Prepare for Weatherization Services

After receiving your application and income information, your local weatherization provider will determine if you are eligible to receive weatherization services. Please remember that people who are most in need are often moved to the top of this list. Finally, if you rent, you must get permission from your landlord before workers can begin work on the house.

Contact Your State Weatherization Administrator

What to Expect When Receiving Weatherization Services

Once your home is selected for weatherization services, your local weatherization provider will schedule a date and time to complete an energy audit, which is a computerized assessment of your home's energy use carried out by a professional energy auditor and includes an analysis of your energy bills, a blower-door (pressurized) test to determine the infiltration of outside air into your house, and an inspection of all energy equipment for potentially health and safety issues.

Once the energy audit analysis is complete, the energy auditor will provide you with a recommended scope of work of the most cost-effective energy conservation measures for your home. All work is energy related, and does not include new roofing, siding, or similar structural improvements.

Once the scope of work is finalized, the energy auditor crew leader from the local weatherization provider will meet with you and your family to explain how the work crews and/or contractors will conduct the work. For 2020, the adjusted average cost per unit (ACPU) is $7,669 per home. Weatherization crews or contractors typically complete their work in a day or two, then the local provider’s inspector will review the work to ensure everything was completed, meets the Standard Work Specifications, and all equipment is operating safely. Throughout the weatherization process, the health and safety of your family is a priority.

Find Help with Energy Bills

The following federal programs provide support to low-income families that need assistance with their energy bills.

• LIHEAP provides short-term assistance to low-income families to help pay utility bills. This program is funded by HHS. Sometimes states use LIHEAP funds for weatherization to reduce a family's energy bills over the long term.
• Federal Energy Management Agency (FEMA) provides a number of services to assist individuals who are victims of a natural disaster. These services include low-interest loans, some cash grants, and links to assistance from other agencies, such as the Internal Revenue Service and Farm Service Agency.

For additional assistance, check with state and local emergency management organizations, as well.