HARRISBURG, Pa. - Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services announced that the start of the state's federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, will be delayed one month until Dec. 3, 2025, due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

The delay stems from the state’s failure to receive its anticipated federal allocation for the 2025-26 LIHEAP season. The program was originally scheduled to begin accepting applications on Nov. 3.

LIHEAP is a federal program administered by the Department of Human Services that assists eligible Pennsylvanians with home heating bills during winter. Annually, Pennsylvania receives more than $215 million for LIHEAP; the commonwealth received $229 million in 2024 and $216 million in 2023.

State officials said Pennsylvania cannot cover these costs without the federal funds.

The program supports over 300,000 Pennsylvania families in heating their homes, assistance which is often vital for older adults and low-income households.

"The LIHEAP Program helps more than 300,000 Pennsylvania families heat their homes during the colder months," said Human Services Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh. "I urge Congress and the White House to recognize the serious consequences that limiting heating assistance will have on the health and safety of people in Pennsylvania."

State officials said that once the federal shutdown concludes and the funding is released, the Department of Human Services will begin accepting LIHEAP applications. Preseason applications already submitted for LIHEAP and other benefits will continue to be processed, but payments are pending the release of federal funds.

For Pennsylvanians with immediate needs, the state suggests contacting local utility assistance programs offered by many electric and gas companies. Additionally, individuals can seek local resources by calling 211 or visiting www.pa211.org.

Online resources are also available through PA Navigate at pa-navigate.org/.

The state’s annual winter utility shutoff moratorium will still run from Dec. 1 through March 31. This measure prevents regulated utility companies from disconnecting services for qualifying customers at or below 250 percent of the Federal Poverty Level.

State officials emphasized, however, that the moratorium prevents shutoffs but does not eliminate a customer’s outstanding heating bills, underscoring the necessity of LIHEAP funding.