LIHEAP / ESA Eligibility Checker
See whether you qualify for LIHEAP bill assistance and free ESA weatherization. They are separate programs that use the same income test.
LIHEAP and ESA use California's 60%-of-state-median-income limit, which is more generous than CARE's. For FY2027, that's about $41,502 for one person up to $110,140 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 $41,502 for a household of 1, rising to $110,140 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 may qualify for both programs. They pay differently. LIHEAP is bill assistance, a cash payment or bill credit of roughly $94-$1,500 for heating, up to $932 for cooling, and up to $1,500 in a crisis such as a shutoff notice.
ESA pays for home improvements: free insulation, weatherstripping and efficient appliances for income-qualified homeowners and renters. If you flagged a crisis above, say so when you apply, because crisis cases are typically handled first. Enrolling in LIHEAP also qualifies your household for the CARE utility discount automatically, so apply for both.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between LIHEAP and ESA in California?
LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) helps pay the bill, with 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, such as insulation, weatherstripping and efficient refrigerators, 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, and you can have all of them. CARE lowers your monthly rate, LIHEAP gives one-time or periodic bill assistance, and ESA provides free efficiency upgrades. Enrolling in LIHEAP also qualifies you for CARE automatically.
How do I apply for LIHEAP or ESA in California?
Apply through your local agency funded by the Department of Community Services and Development, or on your utility's Energy Savings Assistance page. The agency differs by county, and your utility can tell you which one serves you.
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 is awarded first-come, first-served or by priority. Confirm current availability and apply through your local energy assistance agency.