Application date for home energy assistance starts Nov. 1

Starting Nov. 1, applications will be taken for the 2011-2012 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

The program has been established to help qualifying low-income Iowa homeowners and renters pay for a portion of their primary heating costs. It is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services through the Iowa Department of Human Rights/DCAA.

The Southern Iowa Economic Development Association Jefferson County Resource Center in Fairfield will be taking applications Nov. 1 through April 30 ? households with elderly or disabled members may begin submitting applications Monday.

Applicants need to furnish some form of identification, a copy of his or her most recent heating and electric bill and telephone bill and proof of all household members? gross income for the past three months or for the past calendar year.

For further information, contact the resource center at 472-6140.

The assistance is based on household income, household size, type of fuel and other factors.

Eligibility for participation is established according to federal income guidelines:

? Household of 1: $4,084 three-month gross income or $16,335 annual gross income.

? Household of 2: $5,516 three-month gross income or $22,065 annual gross income.

? Household of 3: $6,949 three-month gross income or $27,795 annual gross income.

? Household of 4: $8,381 three-month gross income or $33,525 annual gross income.

? Household of 5: $9,814 three-month gross income or $39,255 annual gross income.

? Household of 6: $9,814 three-month gross income or $39,255 annual gross income.

? Households of more than 6: Add $1,433/$5,730 for each additional member.

Households that earn more than LIHEAP regular income guidelines may be eligible for LIHEAP benefits through the medical waiver component. The medical expenses must be documented, paid and non-reimbursable.