Energy Assistance Appointment Checklist

Consumers can apply for energy assistance with their local Energy Assistance Provider (community action agency) and some programs require an appointment/interview. Consumers must bring the proper documentation to complete the application process. This fact sheet serves as a guide for those appointments. The local Energy Assistance Provider may require different documentation, so consumers should verify what is needed when scheduling the appointment. Ohioans applying for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP Plus), Winter Crisis Program (WCP), Summer Crisis Program (SCP) and/or Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), will need the following: 

1. Proof of citizenship, or legal residency (Qualified Alien) status for all household members.
2. Birth dates and Social Security numbers for all household members.
3. Most recent electric and/or natural gas bill—applicant should be the household member with utility bills in his or her name (with some limited exceptions).
4. Disconnection notice, if applicable.
5. Proof of income for the previous 30 days for all members of the household 18 years and older (see below). For seasonal or self-employed workers, proof of income for the past 12 months may be required.

If claiming zero income, consumers will need to complete and sign paperwork indicating how the household has been sustained and provide proof. Accepted documentation includes: 

• Statement of support from individuals who have been helping with expenses.
• IRS tax transcripts, which can be obtained by contacting the IRS.

Additional documentation may be required:

1. A photo ID could be required. Check with the local Energy Assistance Provider.
2. If anyone in the household over 18 years old attends college, current tuition/ financial aid information may be required.
3. Any household with a member who is permanently and totally disabled must provide proof of the disability, such as a doctor’s statement or proof of disability income.
4. Those renting or leasing the residence may be asked to provide:
   1. A copy of the current lease and landlord’s name, address, and phone number.
   2. For a month-to-month lease or verbal agreement, individuals may be required to provide a notarized statement of agreement from the landlord that includes their contact information.
   3. Anyone in HUD/government assisted housing may be required to provide Housing Authority documentation.
5. Bulk fuel users applying for the Winter Crisis Program may need to certify in writing that they have less than 25% of a supply of bulk fuel.
6. If a non-household member is applying on behalf of the consumer, then a Power of Attorney, a notarized statement, Representative Payee from the Social Security Administration, or legal guardianship documentation will be required. 

Home visits may be available due to age or disabilities. For questions, or for more information, contact the local Energy Assistance Provider (community action agency). To locate your local Energy Assistance Provider, visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov or contact the Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) at 1-800-282-0880.