Utility aid uncertain
Staff writer
A program to help low-income Kansans pay utility bills faces an uncertain future.
Low-income energy assistance, usually called LIEAP, is administered through the Kansas Department for Children and Families with money from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Although the deadline to apply for LIEAP has passed, the application period for 2026 is uncertain because of the federal shutdown.
To qualify, a resident must be responsible for paying heating costs, whether to a landlord or to a fuel vendor.
Income limits are $1,956 a month for a family of one, plus $688 for each additional family member.
The amount allotted varies according to income, the number of people in the residence, the type of dwelling, and the type of heating fuel.