The Alaskan Heating Assistance Program (HAP) works in coordination with the Department of Energy to administer a Liheap-grant program. Under the auspices of the program, the Federal Government subsidizes the heating costs for individuals who earn below 150% of the federal poverty line, while the state of Alaska helps to fund heating costs for those up to 225% of the income limit.
Locally, the Alaska Department of Public Assistance helps to coordinate the efforts. According to the state program requirements, a family of four can qualify for subsidized heating with an income up to $4,969 while a 2-member household can qualify with a gross adjusted income of less than $3,281, which is lower than federal guidelines. Applications for the program begin in September, and the subsidies take effect from November until April of each year. Additionally, some households may qualify for subsidies on their utility deposits where applicable.
The state program was signed into law by Governor Palin last June, which also suspended the state’s tax on fuel, as well as providing a stimulus check to help defer the temporarily high energy costs. Since that time, energy prices have moderated, and the legislature is not expected to renew the stimulus for this calendar year; the requirements for this upcoming winter season may be adjusted as well. Last year’s additional subsidy was funded from the Permanent Fund dividend, and applied to full time state residents and to meet certain requirements. While the State Fuel Assistance grants are entirely contingent upon your income level and disability status, additional state funding may depend upon other need-based factors.
Once a resident files for a fuel assistance grant, the state will notify qualifying households within 45 days. During the waiting period, it is necessary to continue to pay standard rates, although you may pursue a payment plan with the energy company independent of the grant. Allocated grants begin in the period starting November 1, and are issued based upon geography, real estate and household size, with a formula that aims to provide graded subsidies. Conveniently, awarded grants are sent directly to the energy company, facilitating the process and immediately lowering your bill.
Importantly, individuals who live in Section 8 subsidized housing generally do not qualify for energy assistance, as energy costs are generally included in (already subsidized) rental rates. On a purely income basis, other state grants (such as retirement benefits) are not counted toward your income, potentially allowing government employees and retirees to still qualify for funding, in many cases. The state uses a variety of factors to determine qualification, and can answer any specific questions regarding new or existing applications. Alaska is more generous than most other states when it comes to fuel assistance qualification, providing additional subsidies over the Federal LIHEAP program from the state’s energy fund. By virtue of its high oil export income, as well as the state’s cold weather period, the state government covers a broader array of households than nearly any other state in the Union. Check with the Department of Public Assistance to determine your qualification status.
