Utility Assistance Resources in Ohio
Last updated September 11, 2026
Struggling to keep the lights on or heat your home in Ohio? You are not alone, and real help is available. Ohio administers several federally and state-funded programs specifically designed to help low-income households manage energy costs, prevent shut-offs, and make utility bills more predictable year-round. Eligibility is based primarily on household income and size, so many working families — not just those in crisis — may qualify.
The fastest way to find out which programs you or your client may qualify for is to call 2-1-1 (available 24/7 statewide) or visit oh211.org. Trained community navigators can screen for multiple programs at once, connect you to your local Community Action Agency, and even help initiate applications. Ohio's 88 counties are each served by a local Community Action Agency that processes most utility assistance applications in person or online.
If a utility shut-off is imminent, let any program intake worker know immediately — most programs have provisions for crisis or emergency situations that can move faster than standard processing. Utility companies in Ohio are also required to offer payment plans, and some have their own customer assistance programs worth asking about directly when you call to report a hardship.
Key programs in Ohio
HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) — Ohio's LIHEAP
Ohio's federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), called HEAP in Ohio, provides one-time seasonal benefit payments to help eligible low-income households pay heating and cooling costs. A separate Summer Crisis Program helps with cooling costs and electric bills during summer months, and a Winter Crisis Program provides emergency assistance from November through March for households facing disconnection or without fuel.
How to access: Apply through your county's Community Action Agency. Find your local agency at <strong>energyhelp.ohio.gov</strong> or by calling <strong>2-1-1</strong>. You can also call the Ohio Development Services Agency at <strong>1-800-282-0880</strong> for program information.
PIPP Plus (Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus)
PIPP Plus is an Ohio-specific program that caps monthly electric and natural gas payments at a percentage of a low-income household's monthly income, making bills predictable and manageable year-round. Participants who pay their reduced PIPP amount on time each month also receive a credit that reduces their overall balance over time.
How to access: Enrollment is handled through your local Community Action Agency, which verifies eligibility and enrolls you with your utility provider. Contact your agency via <strong>2-1-1</strong> or <strong>energyhelp.ohio.gov</strong>. You must re-certify eligibility annually to stay enrolled.
Ohio Community Action Agencies
Ohio's network of Community Action Agencies (CAAs) serves all 88 counties and acts as the local delivery point for HEAP, PIPP Plus, and other utility-related assistance. Many CAAs also offer weatherization services, budget counseling, and connections to emergency funds that can help with water bills, deposit assistance, and other utility-related needs not covered by state programs.
How to access: Call <strong>2-1-1</strong> or visit <strong>ohiocaa.org</strong> to find the agency serving your county. Walk-in hours and appointment requirements vary by location, so calling ahead is recommended.
WAP (Weatherization Assistance Program) — Ohio
Ohio's federally funded Weatherization Assistance Program provides free energy efficiency improvements — such as insulation, air sealing, and furnace repairs or replacement — to income-eligible households. These upgrades permanently lower utility costs without requiring the homeowner or renter to pay anything out of pocket.
How to access: Apply through your local Community Action Agency, the same network that administers HEAP. There is often a waitlist, so apply as early as possible. Find your local agency at <strong>energyhelp.ohio.gov</strong> or call <strong>2-1-1</strong>.
2-1-1 Ohio
2-1-1 is Ohio's statewide information and referral helpline connecting residents to local health and human services, including emergency utility assistance funds, faith-based emergency help, and utility company hardship programs that are not widely advertised. It is the single best starting point when you are unsure which program applies to your situation.
How to access: Dial <strong>2-1-1</strong> from any phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or search the online database at <strong>oh211.org</strong>. Interpreters are available for non-English speakers.