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Energy Assistance Program changes made to help during COVID-19

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In these challenging times, Minnesotans may find themselves having to choose between paying their energy bill and other necessities — food, medicine and healthcare.

Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program offers eligible residents help to pay their energy bills so they do not have to choose between life’s necessities. Since COVID-19, there have been some big changes in the Energy Assistance Program:

  1. Income eligibility is based on the last three months (not a whole year)

  2. The annual crisis maximum has increased to $1,200 instead of $600

  3. EAP can help households pay a past due bill, even without a shut-off notice

  4. EAP has enough funds & expects more from the American Rescue Plan

Energy Assistance Program (EAP) facts

  • It’s free!
  • The average grant is more than $1,000.
  • Local Energy Assistance Partners can help with your application!
  • Grants are based on household size and income, and on utility costs.
  • Up to $2,000 per household – for heat and power bills. See 2022 EAP income guidelines.
  • Can also pay off your entire past due water/wastewater bill!
  • It works if you use electricity, natural gas, propane, heating oil or biofuel. 
  • Renters and homeowners are eligible.
  • Emergency fuel delivery, and repairs or replacement of homeowners’ broken heating systems can be arranged.

How to apply for the Energy Assistance Program

29 local EAP service providers including Community Action Programs, counties, tribal governments and non-profits serve all areas of the state. Households contact their local Energy Assistance Program (EAP) service provider to apply.

Find your provider in one of two ways:

  1. Call 1-800-657-3710 and enter zip code
  2. Browse online list of service providers by county or tribe

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