Heating assistance available to help Mahoning Valley stay warm, save money this winter
Expecting to get hit with a high electric bill this winter?
The Ohio Department of Development has several statewide heating assistance programs for residents, whether they need help weather-proofing their homes or managing payment plans on their gas and electricity bills.
“When temperatures drop this winter, no one should have to worry about if they can afford to keep their home warm,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. “Every year, this program serves as a lifeline for thousands of Ohioans, ensuring they can stay safe and comfortable during our coldest months.”
The Ohio Department of Development and Mahoning Youngstown Community Action Program are helping Mahoning Valley residents save money this winter through these four programs.
HEAP
Last year more than 2,140 families in Mahoning County were assisted through the Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program.
The Ohio Home Energy Assistance Program is federally funded and administered through the Ohio Department of Development.
HEAP is a one-time benefit applied directly to help income-eligible customers pay utility bills.
Customers eligible for HEAP must have a household income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines.
HEAP is open for applications now through May 31, 2025.
There are three ways to apply for Ohio heating assistance programs:
- Apply online
- Schedule an in-person appointment with local energy assistance provider to apply
- Apply by mail by sending required filled-out documents to Energy Assistance Programs based in Columbus
Customers can take learn more about HEAP through theses Mahoning Valley area community action agency through April 18, 2025:
- Mahoning Youngstown Community Action Partnership - call (330) 747-7921 for general information and 330-778-2992 to make an appointment
- Community Action Agency of Columbiana - call 330-892-8880
- Trumbull Community Action Program - call 330-951-0015 to schedule an appointment
Here’s what you need to bring or have a copy of to apply successfully:
- Copies of their most recent energy bills
- A list of all household members and proof of income for the last 30 days or 12 months for each member
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency for all household members.
- Proof of disability (if applicable).
- Photo ID for those 18 and over in the household
Additional requirements may be requested depending on household documentation provided.
PIPP
The Ohio Department of Development also offers a Percentage of Income Payment Plan, helping Ohioans pay as low as 5-10% of Income or $10 per month for their bill.
According to First Energy, PIPP customers have a household income at or below 175% of the federal poverty level.
If a customer’s home is heated with gas, they’ll have a monthly payment of 5% of their gross household income for the natural gas bill, and 5% of their gross household income for the electric bill.
If a customer’s home is heated with electric, their monthly payment is 10% of their gross household income.
The balance of the utility bill is subsidized by the state of Ohio, and there is a minimum monthly payment of $10.
If you make 24 on-time and in-full payments with PIPP, any outstanding balances with your utility company will be eliminated.
Learn more about PIPP on the Ohio Department of Development website.
AEP payment assistance
If your bill goes through AEP, the company offers an average monthly payment plan that’s based on income and other payment plan options.
AEP also has helpful outlines for understanding why bills go up this time of year, “from how well your home is insulated to your furnace working overtime to combat the frigid weather we’ve experienced in Ohio lately.”
Homes with electric heating systems and even gas furnaces can see especially large jumps, according to AEP.
Use the AEP Energy Dashboard, a free online tool, to learn more about your energy usage and get tips on saving money.
You can also call Ohio 211 Help Hotline or text your ZIP code to 898211 for more information about utility bills and assistance programs.
Ohio Home Weatherization Assistance Program
If your heating system needs repairs, replacements or an inspection, check out the Ohio Home Weatherization Assistance program.
With HWAP, the goal is to conserve energy in homes by weatherproofing them, which keeps heated or cooled air from escaping.
Inspectors can offer the following services at no cost to eligible residents:
Personalized energy management plans
Health and safety testing and inspections
Heating system repairs or replacements
- Reducing air leakage from major sources (chimneys, walls, etc.)
- Insulation for attics, walls, floors, ducts, water tanks, and basements
Residents qualify for the program if their income is at or below 200% of the federal income guidelines.
According to the Public Utilities Commission, priority is given to homes housing Ohioans over 60 years old, children and people with disabilities.
Automatic eligibility is granted to those who received assistance in the past year from HEAP, PIPP, Supplemental Security Income and Temporary Aid to Needy Families programs
For more information, Mahoning County residents can contact the MYCAP Energy Services Department by calling (330) 747.7921 ext. 1727
