The federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Program (LIHEAP), also known as the Fuel Assistance Program (FAP), provides qualified households with assistance in paying their heating bills during the winter heating season. Your benefits are calculated based on number of household members, household income, energy costs and housing type among other things. This allows those households with the lowest incomes and highest energy costs to receive the highest benefits.
The FAP program pays fuel vendors directly. The invoice amount is subtracted from the FAP customer’s benefit amount. Vendors may continue to submit invoices throughout the fuel season until the customer’s benefit is at zero.
When it comes to heating your home, it’s important to act early. The Fuel Assistance Program runs from November 1 – April 30, and applications are accepted starting July 1.
The New Hampshire Electric Assistance Program (EAP) gives eligible customers a discount on their monthly electric bills—anywhere from 8% to 76% depending on your gross household income and household size. This discount can make your electric bills more affordable, help waive late fees and deposits, and prevent service disconnects. Benefits and participation are subject to availability of funds.
The following is a list of companies that participate in the program:
Complete the required forms, then meet with us in-person or by phone to apply.
Print and complete your application and send it back within 10 days.
We can mail you an application upon request.
In order to be considered for the Fuel Assistance Program or the New Hampshire Electric Assistance Program, you must apply. You can apply for one or both programs at the same time. Applications are taken through our Client Services Office in Dover, by appointment, or by mail. We strongly encourage all families in need to apply for these assistance programs, even if you don’t think you qualify.
Applications can take as long as 60 days to process. Apply early to make sure you get the help you need when you need it!
The following list of forms and documentation may be needed to complete your application. Incomplete applications will not be eligible to receive a benefit and will be denied. Call our office to find out how to reapply if your application has been denied.
NOTE: Failure to bring all necessary documents with you to your appointment will delay your application process.
Documentation of Income
Gross wages for all household members for the last 30 days prior to your application date.
Examples of required income: employment; pensions; retirement; civil service; unemployment; workers’ compensation; bank interest and dividends; self-employment; annuities; alimony; any income received by the Social Security Administration etc.
Proof of State and City Assistance
If you have received assistance, either from your local town welfare agency or the Department of Health and Human Services (Food Stamps, TANF, APTD, OAA, FAP, NHEP etc.) you will need a copy of the most recent decision letter.
Proof of Child Support Paid Out and Received
A child support form must be completed for households where only one biological parent resides. If you pay child support, provide proof of receipts within the application income period.
No or Low Income Form
Anyone 16 years or older with no or low income, who is not in high school, must complete a No/Low Income Form. Assistance Form may be requested if help is received outside of the home.
Proof of Self-Employment
Any household member that is self-employed is required to provide a copy of their SIGNED current tax return along with the Schedule C and all supporting schedules.
Tax Return
All applicants must provide a copy of their most recently completed IRS Tax Return. Any adult household members that did not file will need to complete a 4506-T to confirm non-filing.
Proof of Residency
Renters with heat included are required to have a Landlord/Tenant Verification form completed by the landlord. Homeowners must provide proof of a mortgage statement or property tax bill.
Social Security Cards and Date of Births
For all household members, if applicable.
Fuel Vendor/Account Number and Usage
Vendor must be established before your application date. If you have used the same fuel vendor for the past 12 months, please provide 12 months of fuel costs.
Electric Bill
Most recent electric bill (Eversource or NH Electric Co-op)
***Please keep in mind that not all circumstances can be addressed, and that additional paperwork may be requested during the application process.
Feel free to contact our office to discuss any unusual circumstances so we can best assist you. Our number is (603) 435-2500.
Will CAPSC pay my heating bill?
CAPSC will use your benefit amount to pay your heating bill. Once you have exhausted your benefit amount, you are responsible for paying your bill.
Can I get help with electric bills if I don’t qualify for the fuel program?
Yes, please complete an application for Electric Assistance.
I missed the fuel assistance deadline, can I still apply?
Unfortunately, you may not apply after April 30. Applications for Fuel Assistance must be submitted by April 30 each year.
What if I don’t think I qualify for assistance? Should I still apply?
Yes! Even if you don’t think you will qualify, we encourage you to apply.
When will I hear back about my application?
Applications can take up to 60 days to process. After your application is certified you will either receive an Enrollment Letter or a Denial Letter.
I got a denial letter. What do I do now?
If you were denied due to being over income, you may reapply if your income changes. If you were denied for insufficient documentation, you may submit the documents within 30 days, and we can redetermine your eligibility. If you wait longer than 30 days, you will need to restart the application process.
Community Action Partnership of Strafford County is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization established under the provisions of the Equal Opportunity Act of 1964 and established in Strafford County in May of 1965.
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