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Wyoming has $11 million for heating bills, but just 16% of eligible households applied last year

"I'm able to keep my home at a comfortable temperature because I don't have to worry about the extra."

A person looking at utility paperwork.

Photo Credit: iStock

Wyoming has roughly $11 million available to help eligible households pay their heating bills, yet only 16% of qualifying households applied for it in 2025, according to Yellowstone Public Radio.

Here's what to know

Whether a household heats with electricity, natural gas, propane, or another fuel, Wyoming's Low Income Energy Assistance Program can help pay the bill.

A four-person household earning slightly more than $5,700 a month can qualify, while the monthly income limit for individuals is just under $3,000. Applicants do not have to own a home: Renters and people living in permanently parked trailers or RVs are eligible, too.

Dangerously cold winter weather makes help with heating bills especially important, said Kristina Packard, who oversees Wyoming's energy assistance program.

For homeowners considering longer-term improvements, Palmetto helps you compare efficient HVAC and heat pump solutions and find vetted installers through its Comfort Plan network.

More background

Americans were projected to spend an average of $82 more to heat their homes than in the winter of 2025-26, an increase more than double the inflation rate.

Packard explained that for a household with little financial flexibility, that seasonal spike can be difficult to absorb. 

Someone who typically pays $50 a month for energy might see their bill reach $75 or $80 during winter, meaning they have to find another $25 to $30 in a budget with little room to spare.

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Reaching older residents and people with fixed monthly incomes is particularly important, Packard emphasized, because higher bills in the coldest months can make a habitable indoor temperature harder to afford. 

They are among the households Wyoming's program targets when energy costs consume a disproportionate share of income.

What can be done?

Packard urged households that meet the income requirements to seek help with cold weather heating expenses, including those who may be unaware of the program. 

Wyoming residents can apply at MyLieapWyo.org or call 800-246-4221.

For homeowners considering equipment upgrades, Palmetto's Comfort Plan offers $0-down options, and efficient heating and cooling can lower those costs by up to 50%. Its Comfort Plans include 12 years of free maintenance, tackling ongoing expenses alongside upfront costs.

Pairing efficient electric HVAC with solar can also help you cut utility spending while making your home more self-reliant. EasyHome offers a solar shopping tool to help you compare installation offers, find available incentives, and make sure you get the best deal.

Packard described the difference heating assistance can make for seniors.

"We have many seniors who have said, 'I'm able to keep my home at a comfortable temperature because I don't have to worry about the extra.' Because they're on a fixed income."

Where can I learn more?

Wyoming isn't the only state helping households cover winter energy bills. These stories cover heating assistance eligibility, application windows, and utility bill relief in Virginia, Massachusetts, and New York.

• Virginia households can seek up to $600 in heating assistance during a month-long window.

• Massachusetts renters and homeowners can qualify for winter heating help under income-based eligibility rules.

• In New York, 38,000 households applied for heating bill relief in just three weeks.

• New York utility customers can get bill credit help at in-person events before winter.

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