Welfare Info

Weatherization Assistance Program for Low-Income Persons

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) enables low-income families to reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. Funds are used to improve the energy performance of dwellings families in need, using the most advanced ...

What is Weatherization Assistance Program for Low-Income Persons?

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) enables low-income families to reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. Funds are used to improve the energy performance of dwellings families in need, using the most advanced technologies and testing procedures available in the housing industry. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) provides funding to states, U.S. overseas territories, and Indian tribal governments, which manage the administration of the program. These governments, in turn, fund a network of local community action agencies, nonprofit organizations, and local governments that provide these weatherization services in every state, the District of Columbia, U.S. territories, and among Native American tribes.

Program Requirements

As many as 20 to 30 million U.S. families are eligible for weatherization services nationwide. Services are provided by the states, and each state has slightly different criteria. All energy services are handled by local weatherization agencies.

If you receive Supplemental Security Income or Aid to Families with Dependent Children, you are automatically eligible to receive weatherization services. In other cases, states give preference to:

  • People over 60 years of age
  • Families with one or more members with a disability
  • Families with children (in most states)

One of the primary factors affecting eligibility is income. Depending on what state you live in, you are eligible for weatherization if your income falls below the 200 percent poverty level.
 

In order to qualify, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:

Household Size* Maximum Income Level (Per Year)
1 $23,760
2 $32,040
3 $40,320
4 $48,600
5 $56,880
6 $65,160
7 $73,460
8 $81,780

*For households with more than eight people, add $8,320 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.

Some states use a third alternative to set eligibility if your income is less than 60 percent of the median income in your state; and minimum incomes for Hawaii and Alaska, respectively, are slightly higher.

Application Details

What is the application process for Weatherization Assistance Program for Low-Income Persons?

For more information about applying for this program visit the DOE Where to Apply for Weatherization Assistance page.

Contact Info

Weatherization website