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Utility Assistance in Kentucky (2026)

LIHEAP, shutoff protection, no-deposit electricity, and assistance programs for Kentucky residents

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Quick Answer

Yes, Kentucky residents can get help paying utility bills through the federal LIHEAP program administered by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Community Based Services. The average electric bill in Kentucky is $134/month. Heating assistance averages Up to $250 per household (FY 2026 heating benefit range $15-$250). No credit check, no criminal background check required.

Call 1-855-306-8959 or dial 211 to apply.

Kentucky Utility Assistance at a Glance

$134

Avg. Electric Bill/Mo

Yes

LIHEAP Available

No

Winter Moratorium

5

Assistance Programs

Average electric bill is the EIA 2024 residential average monthly bill for this state (Electric Sales, Revenue, and Average Price, released Oct 2025).

LIHEAP in Kentucky

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Kentucky is administered by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Community Based Services. LIHEAP helps low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. There are no criminal background checks -- people with felony records, those on probation or parole, and formerly incarcerated individuals all qualify based on income alone.

Administering AgencyKentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Community Based Services
Phone1-855-306-8959
WebsiteVisit website
Income Limit150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
Heating AssistanceUp to $250 per household (FY 2026 heating benefit range $15-$250)
Cooling AssistanceUp to $250 per household (FY 2026 cooling benefit range $41-$250)
Crisis AssistanceUp to $400 maximum (winter crisis, FY 2026)
WeatherizationAvailable

Utility Shutoff Protections in Kentucky

Kentucky does not have a formal winter moratorium. The Kentucky Public Service Commission requires 10 days written notice before disconnection. Utilities must offer reasonable payment plans.

Winter Moratorium

No

Medical Protection

Yes

Senior Protection

No

No-Deposit Electricity Options in Kentucky

Kentucky utilities including Kentucky Power and LG&E/KU offer budget billing. Deposits may be waived with satisfactory credit or a letter of good payment history from a prior utility.

Kentucky Utility Assistance Programs

  • Kentucky LIHEAP
  • Kentucky Weatherization Program
  • LG&E/KU WeCare
  • Kentucky Power ReachOut
  • Community Action Agencies (statewide)

How to Apply for Utility Assistance in Kentucky

  1. 1

    Check if You Qualify

    Your household income must be at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. You also qualify automatically if you receive SNAP (food stamps), SSI, TANF, or certain other benefits. There is no criminal background check. Call 211 to check eligibility.

  2. 2

    Gather Your Documents

    You will need proof of identity (state ID, driver's license), proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefit award letters), a recent utility bill, and proof of address. Social Security numbers for all household members are typically required.

  3. 3

    Contact Your Local Agency

    Apply through the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Community Based Services by calling 1-855-306-8959, visiting their website, or contacting your local Community Action Agency. You can also call 211 to find the nearest office.

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    Apply in person, by mail, or online (if available in Kentucky). Most states process applications during the heating season (October through May). Funds are limited, so apply as early as possible. Crisis assistance may be available year-round.

  5. 5

    Receive Your Benefit

    LIHEAP payments are sent directly to your utility company or fuel vendor. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. If you have a shutoff notice, mention it -- crisis assistance can be expedited within 48 hours. Also ask about weatherization services to permanently lower your energy costs.

Kentucky Utility Commission

The Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC) regulates utilities in Kentucky. If you have a dispute with your utility company about billing, deposits, or shutoffs, you can file a complaint.

Website: Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC)

Complaint phone: 1-800-772-4636

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for LIHEAP utility assistance in Kentucky?
Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 211 to apply for LIHEAP in Kentucky. Application windows vary by state - some accept applications only during the heating season, others year-round (check your state's LIHEAP agency page above). You can also apply through your state's LIHEAP administering agency. Bring proof of income, a recent utility bill, and ID. There is no criminal background check.
Can I get help with my electric bill in Kentucky if I have a criminal record?
Yes. LIHEAP and most utility assistance programs in Kentucky do not run criminal background checks. Eligibility is based on your household income (many states use 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or 60% of State Median Income - see your state's limit above) or participation in programs like SNAP, SSI, or TANF. People with felony records, those on probation or parole, and formerly incarcerated individuals all qualify.
What is the average electric bill in Kentucky?
The average residential electric bill in Kentucky is approximately $134 per month. Your actual bill depends on usage, the size of your home, heating/cooling needs, and your utility provider. If your bill is more than 6% of your household income, you have a high energy burden and likely qualify for assistance.
Can my utilities be shut off in Kentucky during winter?
Kentucky does not have a blanket winter shutoff moratorium, but protections may exist for elderly, disabled, or medically vulnerable households. If you receive a shutoff notice, contact your utility company immediately to discuss payment plans, or call 211 for emergency assistance. LIHEAP crisis assistance can help prevent disconnection.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal or financial advice. Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts may vary and are subject to change. LIHEAP funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis in many states. Always confirm current information directly with your state agency, utility company, or local Community Action Agency. If you need immediate help, call 211 for local assistance or contact your utility company about hardship programs before your service is disconnected.

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