Michigan’s state Energy Assistance Programs provide a variety of options for low-income families to get support for their winter heating bills. The programs range from a direct home heating credit program to a state emergency relief program to tax benefits for weatherization.
Additionally the Heat and Warmth Fund provides assistance for low income families through private donations and educational programs. Additional local organizations that work to provide private grants include the Salvation Army People Care program, which helps low income families during challenging periods. Households which get utility services from Lansing may also qualify for the Pennies of Power program which protects against utility turn-offs during the peak season. Simillarly, the Tri County Electric cooperative programs a People Fund grant system for needy families.The are also private assistance programs from local Citizens Energy, which allows needy households to receive emergency energy assistance based on an application basis for delivery during the winter season. At need families can Apply Online for assistance through the program.
The requirements for Michigan’s LIHEAP grants require that individuals can earn up to 110% of the Federally-defined poverty income levels - crisis assistance is provided for those earning up to 60% of the state’s median income (in these cases, assistance is automatic and you can qualify for a higher level of help on a year-round basis.) Standard assistance is given through block grants annually, serving over 500,000 households in the state. The state provides tax credits to low income families which allows complete exemptions for low-income, disabled and elderly households to help pay for their assistance.
Additionally, a State Emergency Relief Program provides emergency help on at as-need basis. The state also provides a special winter protection plan for at-risk families, including the elderly, disabled the poverty stricken. The protection program helps families by spreading out their winter heating bills throughout the year - the program can ensure that low income families have widespread access to funds during the winter season.
Michigan also provides a weatherization assistance program, which aims to provide families with the help they need to upgrade the energy efficiency of their homes. Through a combination of tax rebates and grants, state households and small businesses are able to afford energy efficiency upgrades to construction, appliances and home upgrades.
