CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – With rising energy costs, Mecklenburg County officials said on Tuesday that help is still available to residents, but the deadline is approaching.
Mecklenburg County officials said on Tuesday, March 17, that residents have until March 31, 2026, to apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program.
The program is available to Mecklenburg County residents who need immediate help with energy costs. It helps people avoid choosing between heating their homes and other essentials.
Mecklenburg County said residents do not need to be behind on their energy bills to receive a one-time payment of $300, $400 or $500.
To qualify for the program, a household must meet the following:
- At least one eligible U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Be responsible for the heating cost
- Income at or below 150% (60 years of age and older) or 130% (under 60 years old) of the Federal Poverty Limit
The 2026 federal poverty level went into effect in January. For a single-person household, the annual income threshold is $15,960. For a family of four, the threshold is $33,000.
The applicant must also provide the following:
- Identification, such as a driver’s license, State ID card, or passport
- Utility bill
- Social Security number
- Proof of income
Residents can apply the following ways:
- Online with North Carolina ePASS
- Mail the completed application to 301 Billingsley Road, Charlotte, NC 28211
- Email the completed application to Energy-CIP-LIEAP@MecklenburgCountyNC.gov
- Drop off a completed application or walk-in to apply in person at:
- Valerie C. Woodard Center, Entrance A, 3205 Freedom Drive, Charlotte NC 28208
- Ella B. Scarborough Center, 430 Stitt Road, Charlotte, NC 28213
- Call 704-336-3000 to complete a telephone application.
If approved, the one-time payment will be made directly to the utility company. It could take four to six weeks for the payment to take effect.
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