Why seniors may get priority
Check eligibility with the program. Rules, income limits, dates and funding change and differ by area. This site is a directory of official and major nonprofit help. It is not legal or financial advice, and we are not connected to any program. Official programs don’t charge a fee to apply.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services notes that households with a frail, elderly or disabled person, or a young child, are more affected by poorly heated or cooled homes. LIHEAP fact sheet. Many states let these households apply first. For example, Illinois opened applications on 1 October 2026 for adults 60 and over before other households.
US programs
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Federally funded help with heating and cooling bills, energy crises such as shut-off notices, and weatherization. Each state runs its own program, with its own rules and dates.
How to get it: Apply through your state or local LIHEAP office, not the federal government. Find yours on the official state contact list, or call the National Energy Assistance Referral line on 1-866-674-6327.
Weatherization Assistance Program
U.S. Department of Energy
Free home energy improvements, such as insulation and sealing, that lower energy bills for income-eligible households.
How to get it: Apply through your state’s weatherization agency. Your LIHEAP office can often tell you how.
HUD rental assistance (public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers)
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Long-term help with rent for low-income families, seniors and people with disabilities. Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) can pay all or part of the rent for a privately owned home. Waiting lists are common.
How to get it: Contact your local public housing agency (PHA).
Eldercare Locator
U.S. Administration for Community Living
Connects older adults and caregivers with local services, including help with energy bills and other costs.
How to get it: Call 1-800-677-1116 or search online.
BenefitsCheckUp
National Council on Aging (nonprofit)
A free tool that shows benefits older adults and people with disabilities may qualify for, such as help with energy, food and health costs.
How to get it: Answer the questions online.
Lifeline
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
A discount of up to $9.25 a month on phone or internet service (up to $34.25 on Tribal lands). You may qualify with income at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines, or if you get SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance or the Veterans Pension. One benefit per household.
How to get it: Check eligibility and apply through the National Verifier.
UK, Canada and Australia
- Warm Home Discount: a £150 discount on your electricity bill if you get Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit) or certain other benefits.
- Priority Services Register: free extra support from energy suppliers if you’re of pension age.
- Canada: 211 Canada and Benefits Finder.
- Australia: National Debt Helpline (1800 007 007) and your energy retailer’s hardship program.
Get ready to apply
Programs usually ask you to prove who you are, where you live and what your household earns. Before you call, it helps to have:
- ID for the person applying
- Recent proof of income for everyone in the home (pay stubs, benefit letters)
- Your latest bill, and any past-due or shut-off notice
- Your lease or rental agreement (for rent help)
- Your account numbers
Call your utility or landlord early. Many will agree a payment plan if you ask before you fall far behind.
Watch out for scams
Real programs don’t charge you to apply. A utility company won’t demand payment by gift card, wire transfer, cryptocurrency or payment app to stop a same-day shut-off. If someone does, hang up and call the number on your bill. FTC: scammers pretend to be your utility company.
Find help that fits you
Pick your country and what you need help with to see official programs.
Open the bill help finderFrequently asked questions
Is there help with utility bills for seniors?
Yes. In the US, LIHEAP helps eligible low-income households and many states prioritize older adults. The Eldercare Locator (1-800-677-1116) connects you with local services.
Can seniors get a discount on phone service?
Lifeline gives eligible low-income households up to $9.25 a month off phone or internet service. Age alone doesn’t qualify you; it’s based on income or benefits.
Who can help me apply?
Your local Area Agency on Aging, found through the Eldercare Locator, or 211.
Last reviewed: October 2026. General information only — check providers' official sites for current features and pricing.