LIHEAP / ESA Eligibility Checker
See if you qualify for LIHEAP bill assistance and free ESA weatherization — two separate programs, both using the same income test.
LIHEAP and ESA use California's 60%-of-state-median-income limit, which is more generous than CARE's. For FY2026, that's about $39,980 for one person up to $106,102 for a household of 8. LIHEAP pays bill assistance directly (up to $1,500 for heating, $932 for cooling, $1,500 for a crisis); ESA provides free weatherization and appliance upgrades at no cost.
Enter your household size, income, and a couple of housing details below to see which of these two programs you're likely eligible for.
LIHEAP / ESA Eligibility Checker
Your LIHEAP / ESA Result
How this is calculated
LIHEAP and ESA share one income test: 60% of California's state median income, adjusted for household size. For the current federal fiscal year, that ceiling is about $39,980 for a household of 1, rising to $106,102 for a household of 8 (the increments get smaller above household size 6, which is a real feature of how the state median income table is built, not a calculation error).
What you get if you qualify
If your income is at or below that line, you're a plausible candidate for both programs — but they pay out differently. LIHEAP is bill assistance: a cash payment or credit, ranging roughly $94-$1,500 for heating, up to $932 for cooling, and up to $1,500 for a crisis situation like a shutoff notice.
ESA is a home-improvement benefit — free insulation, weatherstripping, and efficient appliances — available to income-qualified homeowners and renters alike. If you flagged a crisis situation above, mention that explicitly when you apply; crisis cases are typically prioritized and processed faster. Being enrolled in LIHEAP also automatically qualifies your household for the CARE utility discount, so it's worth applying for both.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between LIHEAP and ESA in California?
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) provides direct bill-payment assistance — cash or a bill credit toward heating, cooling, or a utility crisis. ESA (Energy Savings Assistance) is a separate program that provides free weatherization and appliance upgrades, like insulation, weatherstripping, and efficient refrigerators, at no cost to income-qualified homeowners and renters. Many households qualify for both.
What is the LIHEAP income limit in California?
California sets the LIHEAP/ESA income ceiling at 60% of the state median income, adjusted for household size. This is generally a higher (more generous) income limit than the CARE utility discount program uses.
How much money can I get from LIHEAP?
Heating bill assistance typically ranges from about $94 to $1,500. Cooling assistance can be up to about $932, and crisis assistance (for a shutoff notice or similar emergency) can be up to about $1,500. Exact amounts depend on your utility, usage, and funding availability that program year.
Is ESA weatherization really free?
Yes, for income-qualified households. ESA covers no-cost home improvements like attic insulation, weatherstripping, door and window repairs, and efficient appliances, for both homeowners and renters.
Can I get LIHEAP and CARE at the same time?
Yes. LIHEAP/ESA and CARE are separate programs that can be combined — CARE lowers your ongoing monthly rate, while LIHEAP provides one-time or periodic bill assistance and ESA provides free efficiency upgrades. Being enrolled in LIHEAP also automatically qualifies you for CARE.
How do I apply for LIHEAP or ESA in California?
Apply through your local Community Services and Development-funded agency, or your utility's Energy Savings Assistance program page. Contact information varies by county — your utility can direct you to the right local agency.
This tool provides an educational estimate only and is not affiliated with the California Department of Community Services and Development or any utility. Funding is limited and processed on a first-come, first-served or priority basis — confirm current availability and apply through your local energy assistance agency.