Minnesota Energy Assistance Program - New COVID-19 based eligibility

There have been changes made to the eligibility requirements and deadlines for applications to help those that may be impacted by the COVID-19 crisis and quarantine.

Energy Assistance Program (EAP) facts

• Renters and homeowners are eligible.

• Assets such as the home value are not considered in determining eligibility.

• Grants range from $200 to $1,400, based on household size, income, and fuel cost.

• The average grant is about $500.

• In addition to the initial grant, additional Crisis funds are available to:

• Help pay a past due bill or get an emergency fuel delivery.

• Help homeowners get their broken furnace repaired or replaced.

EAP changes made to help during COVID-19

• The application deadline is extended to July 1.

• The annual Crisis maximum is increased to $1,200 (up from $600).

• EAP can help households pay a past due bill, even without a shut-off notice.

• Income eligibility is based on the past one month only.

• EAP still has sufficient funds and expects more from the CARES Act.

Learn more and apply:

• Minnesota Department of Commerce EAP website: https://mn.gov/commerce/eap.jsp

• Energy Assistance Service Provider List (by County and Reservation): https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance/eap-provider.jsp

• Help Finding a Service Provider: 1-800-657-3710