Buncombe County -- January 20, 2026: Buncombe County officials have announced that applications for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) are now open for priority groups. This federally funded program provides a vital safety net for residents, offering a one-time payment directly to heating vendors to help offset the costs of keeping homes warm.
Who Can Apply Now?
Starting today, Tuesday, January 20, 2026, applications are being prioritized for households that include:
At least one person aged 60 or older.
An individual with a disability who is receiving services through the Division of Aging.
For all other eligible households, the general application period opened on January 2. Residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as the program will remain open until March 31, 2026, or until available funds are exhausted.
Automatic Payments for SNAP Recipients
If your household received LIEAP assistance last year and currently receives SNAP benefits (Food and Nutrition Services), you may not need to take any action.
Check Your Mail: Many eligible households should have received an automated payment notice in November. If you received this notice, your payment has already been sent to your vendor—there is no need to reapply.
How to Apply
If you did not receive an automated notice and believe you are eligible, there are several ways to submit your application:
Online: The fastest way to apply is through the North Carolina ePASS portal at epass.nc.gov.
In-Person: Visit the Buncombe County Health and Human Services office at 40 Coxe Ave., Asheville. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
By Phone: For assistance or to check the status of a case, call 828-250-5500.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a LIEAP payment, a household must:
Meet specific income requirements (generally at or below 130%–150% of the Federal Poverty Level).
Be responsible for its own heating costs.
Include at least one U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen.
WNCTimes