Fuel Assistance Program

If you or someone you know is having trouble paying for heat during the winter season, the Fuel Assistance Program (FAP) may be able to provide some relief.

The Fuel Assistance Program is New Hampshire's arm of the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) which is funded through the US Department of Health and Human Services. While the Department of Energy administers the program, the on-the-ground work is done by local Community Action Agencies with whom the Department contracts.

As funds become available, the Fuel Assistance Program provides benefits to qualified New Hampshire households to assist with heating costs. The Fuel Assistance Program can also help households during a heating emergency by securing an emergency delivery of fuel, delaying a shut-off notice, or referring clients to another source of assistance.

Fuel Assistance benefits are a grant and do not have to be paid back.

Fuel Assistance benefits range from $100 to $2,177, depending on household income and energy costs. Benefits are calculated taking into account household income, energy costs, number of heating degree days within a region, and housing type. This targeting allows FAP to provide those households with the lowest incomes and the highest energy costs with the highest benefits. (See the eligibility guidelines.) The average benefit is $1,284.17. Fuel Assistance benefits are not counted as income when applying for other assistance programs.

Quick Links

How to Apply

To apply for Fuel Assistance, contact your local Community Action Agency (CAA) to set up an appointment or to learn more about the application process.

Other Resources

  • The Electric Assistance Program provides income eligible customers with a discount on their monthly electric bills.  The Weatherization Assistance Program assists those low-income households most vulnerable to high-energy costs and without the means of making cost-effective energy conservation improvements to their homes.
  • Even if you find that you are not eligible for either FAP or WAP, you may still be able to save money on your energy costs through other programs. See our Energy Efficiency Rebates and Incentives page for more information.
  • SAFETANK Financial Assistance Program - Financial assistance is available to help eligible New Hampshire homeowners repair or replace aging home heating oil storage tank systems.

Helpful Tips for Deliverable Fuel Customers

For NH residents that heat with oil, kerosene, or propane:
Your fuel supplier is working hard to keep you safe and warm. Follow these tips to be prepared for a quick and easy fuel delivery:

  • Keep an eye on your fuel gauge. To avoid delivery delays, always call your vendor at least ten days in advance of needing fuel.
  • Make sure that your driveway and the path to the tank are clear of snow.
  • Mark your tank with a flag so it is easy to locate.
  • Check that your house number is visible from the road.
  • Keep any exhaust vents on your home clear of snow, ice, and other debris.

Know what to do. Have what you need. Stay safe and warm this winter.

If you or someone you know is having difficulty paying for home heating fuel or utilities, please call your local Community Action Agency. If you need help locating the agency in your area, click on the Community Action Agencies link or call 211 for additional information.

Report Fraud

Report Fraud

To report the suspicion of recipient, agency, or vendor fraud within the Fuel Assistance Program (FAP), please contact the Fuel Assistance Administrator, Leah Richards, at leah.l.richards@energy.nh.gov. All submitted information will remain confidential.