Help With Summer Cooling Bills Before Back-to-School Costs Hit

Why August is hard on your budget

August brings two costs at once. Your air conditioner is running hard, so your electric bill climbs. At the same time, back-to-school shopping starts adding up.

That squeeze is real for many families. The good news: there is help for the cooling side of your bill, and applying costs nothing.

This is not a loan. It is not a service you pay for. It is a benefit you may already qualify for.

The program that helps pay energy bills

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps people with low incomes pay their heating and cooling bills. It is run by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and delivered through your state.

Many states use LIHEAP to help with summer cooling costs, not just winter heat. Some also help if your power is at risk of being shut off, or with fixing or replacing a broken cooling unit.

If you get help with your energy bill, that frees up money for the other things August throws at you, like school supplies and clothes.

How to lower school costs at the same time

While you sort out your energy bill, look at other free help your family may qualify for. The National School Lunch Program offers free or reduced-price meals to eligible students during the school year.

Applying for free or reduced-price school meals is done through your child's school or school district, and it is free to apply.

Every state runs its own energy assistance program with its own rules and application. Here is how to search yours for free.

Frequently asked questions

Does LIHEAP help with summer cooling, not just heat?

Many states use LIHEAP to help with summer cooling costs, and some help with shut-off risk or a broken cooling unit. Rules vary by state, so check your state's program.

Does it cost anything to apply?

No. Applying for LIHEAP through your state or local office is free. You never need to pay a middleman to apply for a government benefit.

Can I get school meal help too?

Possibly. The National School Lunch Program offers free or reduced-price meals to eligible children. Ask your child's school or district for an application.

Will OpenFinancial apply for me or speed it up?

No. We point you to the free, official path. We are not a government agency and cannot speed up or guarantee any decision.