Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

The Home Energy Assistance Program

(HEAP) provides money to help income eligible homeowners and renters pay for heating costs.

To help Mainers stay safe and warm, the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), provides money to help eligible homeowners and renters in Cumberland County pay for a portion of their annual heating expenses. 

The program provides a one-time, per-season, direct payment to heat vendors for homes heated with oil, kerosene, wood, propane, natural gas, electricity and other fuels. HEAP is an income-based program and benefits received are based on household size, income, and current energy costs. Renters can apply for HEAP benefits even if heat is included in monthly rental fees.

Applications are taken by appointment (phone or in person) from the beginning of September through July 15th. To determine eligibility, please review the basic income guidelines for eligibility. 

To apply for HEAP benefits, you will need the following documents:

  • Unexpired photo ID for primary applicant (driver's license, state ID, EBT card w/photo, passport)

  • SSN cards and dates of birth for all household members (or SSN verification document)

  • Fuel vendor name and account #

  • Most recent CMP bill (to include account #, service address and the graph of usage) (Note: bill must be in the name of a household member in order to apply for any of the CMP low income assistance programs.

  • Most recent Portland Water District or natural gas bill- if applicable

  • If rent is subsidized, please bring a housing certification letter (HUD form 50058/59 or RD 3560-8) in effect on date of application

  • Proof of gross income for all household members (pay stubs for past three to 12 months, Social Security award letter, pension benefit statement, and if self-employed, a 2018 federal tax return)

Please note: HEAP benefits will not pay for annual heating expenses in full.

Resources

For more information or to schedule an appointment:

Phone: (207) 553-5900. 
energyassistance@opportunityalliance.org. 

Address:
222 St. John Street, Suite 206-207
Portland, ME 04102

Your appointment may be conducted in person at the HEAP office or by phone. 

Appointments will take about 30 minutes.