Call HEAP toll-free at (800) 282-0880 during regular business hours (7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Monday through Friday.
For the hearing-impaired with a telecommunication device for the deaf (TTD), call toll-free number (800) 686-1557 or in Franklin County, call (614) 752-8808.
The Winter Crisis Program helps income eligible Ohioans that are threatened with disconnection, have been disconnected or have less than a 25 percent supply of bulk fuel in their tank maintain their utility service. The program runs from November 1, 2017 until March 31, 2018. Winter Crisis is a component of the Home Energy Assistance Program. Last year, there were more than 130,000 households served by the Winter Crisis Program. Ohio households, serviced by a PUCO-regulated utility, must sign up for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP Plus) or another payment plan in order to receive emergency benefits.
Ohioans with a household income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines that are facing disconnection, have been disconnected or have less than a 10-day supply of bulk fuel in their tank are eligible for the program. The income levels are:
| Size of Family | Total Household Income 12 Months |
| 1 | up to $21,105 |
| 2 | up to $28,420 |
| 3 | up to $35,735 |
| 4 | up to $43,050 |
| 5 | up to $50,365 |
| 6 | up to $57,680 |
| 7 | up to $64,995 |
| 8 | up to $72,310 |
*For households with more than 8 members, $7,315 per member.
To apply for the program you must complete the Energy Assistance Program application and schedule an appointment with your local Home Energy Assistance Program provider. Click here for a list the list of providers by county. Applications will be accepted from November 1, 2016 through March 31, 2017. Income documentation must be presented at the time of application for all household members, except wage or salary income earned by dependent minors under 18 years old.
Applicants can also mail applications to:
HEAP
P.O. Box 1240
Columbus, Ohio 43216
If you have questions about the Winter Crisis Program, please call toll-free at (800) 282-0880 during regular business hours (7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) Monday through Friday or (614) 644-6600. For the hearing-impaired with a telecommunication device for the deaf (TTD), call toll-free number (800) 686-1557 or in Franklin County, call (614) 752-8808.
You will need to call your local provider to schedule an appointment. Most agencies will accept walk-ins. If you are homebound and unable to travel to the local agency, the agency will determine a time for a home interview.
You will need to bring your picture ID, proof of citizenship for all members of the household, a copy of your utility bill and income documentation for the most recent 90 days. Social Security Numbers and date of birth for all household members is also required. Applicants receiving disability assistance must bring payment documentation.
A list of Winter Crisis Program providers by county can be found here. You must apply for assistance in the county you live in.
Yes, you can apply for assistance through the Winter Crisis Program if you have applied for HEAP. When you contact your local Winter Crisis provider, let them know that you have also applied for HEAP.