Energy Assistance Program changes made to help during COVID-19

Help with utility bills

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:

Income eligibility is based on the last three months (not a whole year)
The annual crisis maximum has increased to $1,200 instead of $600
EAP can help households pay a past due bill, even without a shut-off notice
EAP has enough funds & expects more from the American Rescue Plan

Energy Assistance Program (EAP) facts

Renters and homeowners are eligible
Assets such as the home are not considered in determining eligibility
Benefits range from $200 to $1,600, based on household size, income, and fuel cost
The average grant is about $500
In addition to the initial benefit, additional Crisis Funds are available to:
- Up to $1,200 to pay a past due bill or get an emergency fuel delivery
- Help homeowners get their broken furnace repaired or replaced

Are you eligible?

Household Size	Past 3 months maximum income
1	$7,066
2	$9,240
3	$11,415
4	$13,589
5	$15,763
6	$17,937

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: