Published: July 04, 2009 11:09 pm      

New income guidelines in effect to seek energy aid

CUMBERLAND — New income guidelines are in effect for households to apply for energy assistance through the Allegany County Office of Home Energy Programs.

Applications will be mailed to households that applied last year during the month that the application was received. New applicants should contact the Human Resources Development Commission’s Office of Home Energy Programs at (301) 777-8550 weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Eligibility is based on the household’s combined gross income for the 30 days prior to the application. Applicants must submit proof of gross income and Social Security cards for all household members 18 and older, current utility bills and/or name of fuel supplier and type of fuel, and photo ID.

This year’s income limits are:

• One person, $1,579.37 for 30 days

• Two people, $2,124.79

• Three, $2,670.20

• Four, $3,215.62

• Five, $3,761.04

• Six, $4,306.45

• Each additional member, $545.42

Benefits are determined by household income and size, fuel type, and annual consumption for gas and electric-heated homes. Applicants should continue to pay their utility bills because the energy assistance grants lower the payments but do not replace them.