General - FAQ

 How do the different energy assistance programs vary?

Each subprogram within the Energy Assistance Program is funded differently, so eligibility rules and the amount of assistance may vary. Please refer to the specific programs for detailed information.

How much will SNAP pay?

The amount is based on:

• the rules of the program(s) for which your household qualifies
• your household income, size and type
• the type of assistance you needed (electric, gas, wood or oil)

What if I receive a shut off notice?

Call your utility company to find out if payment arrangements can be made. If you cannot work out an arrangement to keep your heat on, call the SNAP office that serves your neighborhood using the zip code information below and tell them you’ve received a shut off notice.

What kinds of energy assistance are available?

Depending on funding, SNAP may be able to assist with gas, electric, wood, oil and heat costs. All assistance is based on heating costs except the Senior Program, which will help with Avista electric bills. For more information about emergency assistance please call the SNAP office serving your zip code.

Do I get a check or does SNAP send it to my utility company?

Normally, SNAP will send the payment directly to your utility company.

Can this program make my home more weatherproof or energy efficient?

SNAP may be able to help reduce your heating or cooling costs by weatherizing your home.

Weatherproofing may include installing insulation, weather stripping and caulking.

SNAP also provides conservation education classes to help you learn how to reduce heating and cooling costs. Please go see our Weatherization program pages for further information or call the SNAP office serving your neighborhood.

My heating system is broken. Can SNAP help?

If you are a renter, contact your landlord. If you are a low-income homeowner, SNAP may be able to repair or replace your broken heating system. For more information about home heating repair or replacement please call the SNAP office serving your Zip Code.

How do I apply for assistance?

Call the SNAP office for your zip code listed below. SNAP staff will determine your initial eligibility over the phone. If you appear eligible and if funds are available, SNAP may schedule you for an appointment or refer you to an appropriate resource.

Heating Assitance - FAQ

Can I use the online calendar to make an appointment for any other SNAP assistance program?
No, you must call your local SNAP office that serves your zip code to make appointments for ALL other SNAP services. You may only make an energy assistance (EAP) appointment at this site.

What if I have energy questions that are not answered on this web site?
Call your local Snap office that serves your location. See Zip Code referral list.

What do I do if I prefer an appointment at another location or an over the phone appointment?
Phone appointments are usually limited to those households without any transportation, home-bound or the very elderly. Please call: (509) 242-2376

Expect the phone lines to be extremely busy for the first several months.

How often can I get (EAP) energy assistance?
Once per heating season (October 1st of current year to August of following year, if funding is available).

How is a heating season defined?
A heating season runs from October of one calendar year through August of the following calendar year depending on when the funding becomes available and how quickly it is spent out.

Do I have to have an emergency?
No

Are subsidized households eligible?
Yes

Can I receive assistance with my gas/propane/oil heat and with my electric?
Yes, the program allows for a split of an energy grant. Your primary heat vendor (gas/propane/oil) must receive at least 51% of a household heat grant, with no more then 49% going to a secondary vendor (electric).

How is my energy grant calculated?
Your grant is based on many factors: such as total household income (for the 3 previous months from the date of application), the total number of people in the home, housing type and 12 months previous heat usage. The current amount you owe is not used in the calculation of your grant.

What type of documentation do I need to bring with me to the interview?
Income documentation is required for all adults, 18 years and over and verification of monies received for children under 18 (for the 3 previous months from the date of application). Verification of social security numbers for all adults, residence address, annual heat costs or current heat bill, and if in crisis a disconnection notice. Adult household members with no income will be required to sign zero income documentation and should come with you to the appointment. Other documentation may be required.

* These zip codes will require proof that a household is living in Spokane County at the time of assistance.