Deadline approaching for Ohio Summer Crisis Program

OHIO — For those looking for assistance with electric bills, purchasing an AC unit or fan, or making repairs to central air conditioning units, the deadline is swiftly approaching to receive help from the state. 

The Ohio Department of Development is reminding Ohioans of the Sept. 30 deadline to apply to the department’s Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program (HEAP).

“We’re proud to partner with community action agencies across the state to deliver this critical support during the hottest months of the year,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development, which administers the program. “Time after time, this program has proven to be a vital lifeline for countless Ohioans when temperatures start to rise.”

The Summer Crisis Program helps low-income households or those who have a disconnection notice, have been shut off, are working to establish new service on their electric bill or require air conditioning. The program also helps those with a person 60-years-old or older living in the home who have physician documentation that cooling assistance is medically necessary. Medical conditions that qualify can include lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma and others.

In order to qualify for assistance, Ohioans must have a gross income at or below 175% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for a family of up to eight members, and 60% of the State Median Income for a family of nine or more. For a family of four, annual income must be at or below $56,262.50.

In 2024, the program assisted more than 44,000 Ohio households, providing $13.5 million in benefits. 

A new online portal is available this year to apply and manage an account. Ohioans must register for an OHID account to start, which provides a secure way to access the HEAP account.

“We know that when someone is facing a crisis, every minute counts,” said Director Mihalik. “This new online system makes it faster and easier for Ohioans to apply for help — so they can get the support they need, when they need it most.”

In Cuyahoga County, the Division of Senior and Adult Services is also partnering with the department to help provide assistance.

“This summer’s heat and storms have been intense. We encourage everyone to visit the DSAS and Cuyahoga County websites for tips on staying safe during extreme heat, for emergency preparedness guidance when severe weather strikes, and for support navigating assistance programs that are here to help keep you safe,” said Division of Senior and Adult Services Director, Natasha Pietrocola. 

For information on creating an account and applying for assistance, click here.