The Maine State Housing Authority announced Thursday that the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) will continue accepting applications through May 29, 2026.
This federally funded program is designed to help eligible low- and moderate-income households pay a portion of their home heating costs.
MaineHousing officials have explained that funding is still currently available for the program but warned that demand may increase as winter continues amidst rising prices.
“MaineHousing and our community action agency partners across Maine stand ready to help as we head through the final weeks of winter and energy prices continue to climb,” MaineHousing Director Dan Brennan said. “These federal resources are intended to ease the burden of energy costs for Maine’s low- and moderate-income households.”
Both 2024 and 2025 saw waitlists develop towards the end of the winter season. Because of this season’s overall lower demand thus far, assistance is still available for now.
[RELATED: Maine’s Emergency Heating Assistance Program Opens After Month-Long Delay Due to Government Shutdown]
Households facing a crisis situation and in need of immediate help may qualify for the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP), which provides a one-time benefit of up to $500.
To be eligible, households must qualify for HEAP assistance and be without heat or with less than a seven-day supply of fuel.
ECIP applications will remain open until April 30, 2026.
“We know spring is approaching and warmer days are ahead,” Brennan said. “But now is the time to apply for heating assistance if you haven’t already.”
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