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Utility Assistance in Ohio (2026)

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

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Quick Answer

Yes, Ohio residents can get help paying utility bills through the federal LIHEAP program administered by the Ohio Development Services Agency. The average electric bill in Ohio is $125/month. Heating assistance averages Average $400-$600 per household per year. No credit check, no criminal background check required.

Call 1-800-282-0880 or dial 211 to apply.

Ohio Utility Assistance at a Glance

$125

Avg. Electric Bill/Mo

Yes

LIHEAP Available

Yes

Winter Moratorium

5

Assistance Programs

LIHEAP in Ohio

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Ohio is administered by the Ohio Development Services Agency. 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 AgencyOhio Development Services Agency
Phone1-800-282-0880
WebsiteVisit website
Income Limit175% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
Heating AssistanceAverage $400-$600 per household per year
Cooling AssistanceSummer Crisis Program (cooling assistance)
Crisis AssistanceWinter Crisis Program and emergency shutoff prevention
WeatherizationAvailable

Utility Shutoff Protections in Ohio

Ohio's Winter Reconnect Order allows customers disconnected between October 1 and April 15 to have service restored by paying $175 or one-third of the balance (whichever is less) and enrolling in PIPP Plus. PIPP Plus caps bills at 6-10% of income.

Winter Moratorium

Yes

Medical Protection

Yes

Senior Protection

Yes

No-Deposit Electricity Options in Ohio

Ohio's competitive energy market allows shopping for providers with no deposit. AEP Ohio, Duke Energy Ohio, and FirstEnergy offer budget billing. PIPP Plus (Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus) caps bills based on income.

Ohio Utility Assistance Programs

  • Ohio HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program)
  • PIPP Plus (Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus)
  • Winter Crisis Program
  • Summer Crisis Program
  • Ohio Weatherization Program

How to Apply for Utility Assistance in Ohio

  1. 1

    Check if You Qualify

    Your household income must be at or below 175% 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 Ohio Development Services Agency by calling 1-800-282-0880, 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 Ohio). 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.

Ohio Utility Commission

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) regulates utilities in Ohio. If you have a dispute with your utility company about billing, deposits, or shutoffs, you can file a complaint.

Website: Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO)

Complaint phone: 1-800-686-7826

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for LIHEAP utility assistance in Ohio?
Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 211 to apply for LIHEAP in Ohio. Most states accept applications during the heating season (October through May), and some operate year-round. 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 Ohio if I have a criminal record?
Yes. LIHEAP and most utility assistance programs in Ohio do not run criminal background checks. Eligibility is based on your household income (generally 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) 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 Ohio?
The average residential electric bill in Ohio is approximately $125 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 Ohio during winter?
Ohio has winter shutoff protections that restrict or prohibit utility disconnections during cold weather months. Additional protections may apply to elderly, disabled, and medically vulnerable households. Contact your utility company or the state utility commission if you receive a shutoff notice during the protected period.

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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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