Winter is on its way and the Heating Assistance Program (HAP) is now accepting applications from elderly, seniors and disabled individuals. The Program will begin accepting all other applications effective October 1, 2008. If you receive an application in your office, please forward it to the Heating Assistance Program in Juneau, 400 Willoughby Ave, Suite 301, Juneau, AK 99801-1700. Applications may also be faxed to 465-3319 in Juneau or 1-888-282-3319 from all other areas in Alaska. Please note, if you fax the application to the HAP office, please mail the hardcopy application to the above address. The first benefit checks are scheduled to go out on November 3, 2008.
The Division of Public Assistance is now responsible for administering two heating programs; the federally-funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for residents with incomes up to 150% of the poverty income guidelines and the state-funded Alaska Heating Assistance Program (AKHAP). In May of 2008, the Governor signed the Alaska Heating Assistance Program into law and the legislature appropriated $10 million to fund the program. This program is open to eligible residents with incomes from 151% to 225% of the poverty income guidelines. Both programs use the same application and eligibility criteria.