OKLAHOMA CITY — As temperatures swing across the state, Oklahoma Human Services has opened applications for the Energy Crisis Assistance Program (ECAP).
The program administers a one-time benefit designed to help eligible households facing utility shut-offs or other energy-related emergencies.
Applications must be submitted online at OKDHSLive.org. ECAP provides up to $750 per federal fiscal year for qualifying households to help resolve energy crises involving heating or cooling.
Who qualifies for Oklahoma Energy Assistance?
To be eligible, households must meet specific crisis criteria on the day of application, including:
- A current cut-off notice from their utility provider.
- A written notice requiring a deposit or payment to restore or establish service.
- Less than 10% of fuel remaining and refusal of service without payment.
- A pre-paid utility account with less than $25.
- Verification of a payment plan with the utility to avoid shut-off.
The program is available to all Oklahomans who meet the income and crisis eligibility guidelines. Households must also show proof of income, household size, utility bills, identification, and that they are responsible for paying their energy bill. Importantly, if someone outside the home pays the bill directly, the household is not eligible for assistance.
Special note for Tribal households
Households with Native American members may apply through OKDHSLive.org or directly through their Tribal nation. However, they cannot receive assistance for the same component from both sources in the same federal fiscal year.
One payment per household
If approved, eligible households will receive a one-time payment to cover the minimum amount needed to prevent utility shut-off or restore service. The payment is capped at $750 annually, which includes any additional crisis-related energy assistance, such as support for life-threatening medical needs related to energy use.
Households must fall within the following maximum gross monthly income limits:
- 1 person: $1,632
- 2 people: $2,215
- 3 people: $2,798
- 4 people: $3,380
- 5 people: $3,963
- 6 people: $4,546
- 7 people: $5,129
- 8 people: $5,712
Due to high call volumes, Oklahoma Human Services urges residents to apply for the energy assistance program online at OKDHSLive.org and upload all required documentation to avoid delays.
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