An official website of the United States government
The .gov means it's official.
Federal government websites always use a .gov or .mil domain. Before sharing sensitive information online, make sure you’re on a .gov or .mil site by inspecting your browser’s address (or "location") bar.
This site is also protected by an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate that’s been signed by the U.S. government. The https:// means all transmitted data is encrypted — in other words, any information or browsing history that you provide is transmitted securely.
If you can't afford any telephone service, you can still use a cell phone to contact 911 in case of an emergency. If you need a cell phone for this purpose, contact your state social service agency. It can help you find an emergency cell phone donation program near you.
LIHEAP does not pay for water or sewer bills. Learn more by reviewing LIHEAP’s list of frequently asked questions.
For additional help applying for LIHEAP benefits, call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR), a free service, at 1-866-674-6327 (TTY: 1-866-367-6228) or email energyassistance@ncat.org.
Other Options For Help with Gas, Oil, or Electric Bills
If your income is too high to qualify for LIHEAP but you need help with energy bills:
Reach out to your local social services agency or non-profits organizations, which may have funds available through grants.
Contact your gas, oil, or electric company about financial programs or new payment options.
Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA)
Under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), you're guaranteed access to an emergency medical evaluation, even if you can't pay. The act requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding and that provide emergency services to evaluate anyone who comes to their emergency room and requests treatment. If the evaluation confirms that you have an emergency medical condition, including active labor, they are then required to provide stabilizing treatment for you regardless of your ability to pay.
Charity Care Programs
Charity care programs help uninsured patients who can't afford to pay their medical bills and don't qualify for government aid. The patient services department of your hospital can help you find out if you're eligible. If you don't qualify, the hospital may offer you a payment plan.
Welfare or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Learn About Short-Term Financial Assistance
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), also known as welfare, is designed to help families recover from temporary difficulties and move forward.
Recipients may qualify for help with food, housing, home energy, child care, job training, and more.
Each state and tribal government's TANF program is operated differently, and has a different name.
Benefits Eligibility
Each state and territory decides the specific eligibility criteria that must be met to receive financial assistance payments or other types of benefits and services.
Check with your local TANF office to learn whether you are eligible to receive financial assistance or other TANF benefits and services.