Need help with utility bills? Community Action Partnership possibly can assist

MADISON COUNTY – A local agency possibly can help individuals in paying utility bills.

Community Action Partnership Huntsville/Madison & Limestone Counties is providing funding that can help senior citizens at least 60 years old, individuals with disabilities and households with children who are 18 years old and younger.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP helps with utility bills. The program has two seasons — summer and winter. The winter season typically begins in December and ends in mid-March. The summer season begins in June and ends in September.

A season ends when all funds have been distributed to applicants. Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs or ADECA funds the service with a varying amount from year to year.

Income and the number of individuals in a household are the basic for eligibility. Households that meet income guidelines can receive assistance twice in a year (summer and winter). However, eligible households in the target population for elderly individuals, people who are disabled, or children who are five years old or younger may receive assistance up to four times per year.

The 2021 poverty level uses these amounts: For a household size of one person, the allowed monthly income is $1,595. Other amounts are $2,155 for two people; $2,715 for three; $3,275 for four; $3,835 for five; $4,395 for six; $4,955 for seven; and $5,515 for eight.

Individuals must have an appointment for assistance, and the office does not allow walk-in meetings. The scheduler opens at 8 a.m. Required documents for applicants are a current photo identification, Social Security cards for the entire household, previous month’s utility bill and proof of income for entire household.

In addition, applicants can download the LITT Lite App for ‘contactless’ service. Visit caa-htsval.org, and click the “Services” dropdown menu, and then click “Utilities.” You also can download the LITT Lite App in the Apple App Store or in Google Play. With the app, you can apply directly for assistance. You must submit photos of necessary documentation or sign your applications from your phone or any mobile device.

Community Action Partnership’s office address is 3516 Stringfield Road in Huntsville. For more information, call 256-907-1550.