SAINT PAUL, MN: As colder weather sets in, the Minnesota Department of Commerce is urging eligible households to apply now for energy assistance through Minnesota’s federally funded Energy Assistance Program (EAP) - known nationally as LIHEAP - even though federal funding is on hold due to the ongoing government shutdown. 

Under normal circumstances, Minnesota would receive its annual LIHEAP funding - approximately 90% of the total federal award - by early November, allowing payments to begin before peak heating season. However, the state has not yet received new funds for the 2025 - 2026 winter season, and payments for heating bills, emergency fuel deliveries, and furnace repairs will be delayed.

“We are deeply concerned about the potential impact of this funding gap on Minnesota households,” said Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold. “Every winter, LIHEAP helps keep thousands of families safe and warm. Without this assistance, our most vulnerable residents - including seniors, young children, and people with disabilities - could face serious risks.” 

“We are working with utility companies to protect Minnesotans from LIHEAP payment delays," said Lissa Pawlisch, an assistant commissioner with the Minnesota Department of Commerce’s Division of Energy Resources. “For example, Xcel Energy and Minnesota Power have committed to keep LIHEAP-eligible customers connected who might otherwise have been disconnected for non-payment.

Despite the hold on funding, the program continues to accept and process applications, with over 75,000 households having already applied. The Department strongly encourages all income-eligible Minnesotans - including renters and homeowners - to apply now, so they’re ready to receive assistance as soon as federal funds are made available. 

What LIHEAP Provides 

Qualified households may receive: 

• Bill payment assistance (average benefit: $550) 
• Crisis assistance, including disconnection prevention or propane refills 
• Repair or replacement of unsafe or non-functioning heating systems 

Last year, the program supported over 125,000 households across Minnesota, with more than two-thirds of assistance going to residents in Greater Minnesota. Nearly 75% of households served included seniors, people with disabilities, or children under six. 

Cold Weather Rule Protections 

While Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule offers some protection from utility shutoffs, it requires households to set up and follow a payment plan—which can be difficult or impossible without energy assistance. 

“We’re ready to move quickly once federal funds come through,” added Commissioner Arnold. “In the meantime, the most important step Minnesotans can take is to apply now, so they’re in the system and ready to receive help the moment it’s available.” 

How to Apply 

Visit our website to:  

• Learn more about the Energy Assistance Program 
• Check household eligibility based on income and size 
• Apply online or download a paper application 

The application deadline for the 2025–2026 heating season is May 31, 2026. 

Connect with the Minnesota Commerce Department 
Get updates and news from the Minnesota Department of Commerce by following Commerce at mn.gov/commerce or @MNCommerce on social media.

Contact
Minnesota Department of Commerce
news.commerce@state.mn.us