What is the Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP)?
The Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP) is a federally funded program for low-income families that need help in meeting their costs of home energy. Administered by the Division of State Service Centers (DSSC) in partnership with Catholic Charities, Inc., DEAP assists income-eligible families to help them meet their home energy needs. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Income eligibility is defined as 200% of the federal poverty level.
Program Specifics
Administered by DSSC, it is funded by HHS under LIHEAP. DEAP assists income-eligible citizens by reducing their energy-related expenses. Income eligibility is defined as 60% of Delaware SMI after taxes are deducted.
LIHEAP is a supplemental payment program and is not designed to cover all the heating cost. DEAP has several programs of assistance which include:
Features
Winter Heating Fuel Assistance: This program provides support for home energy bills from October 1 to March 31. Eligible households can receive benefits to help cover their seasonal heating costs. The assistance covers various heating sources, including electricity, natural gas, oil, kerosene, propane, coal, and wood. Homeowners and renters are both eligible for these benefits.
Crisis Assistance: This is available throughout the year and can be received in conjunction with the seasonal fuel assistance benefits. To qualify for this assistance, households need to provide documentation of a crisis, such as receiving a shut-off or disconnect notice, having a fuel tank reading of 10% or lower, or currently dealing with overdue utility bills.
Delaware Weatherization Assistance Program: This program offers a complimentary program aimed at creating energy-efficient and cozy homes. Administered by the Division of Climate, Coastal, and Energy, this initiative assists homeowners and renters in reducing their energy expenses by enhancing the insulation and energy efficiency of their residences. For inquiries about the program, feel free to contact us at 302-735-3480 and inquire about the Weatherization program.
Who is eligible to take part in this program?
To qualify for this assistance program, you must be a Delaware resident and establish that you need financial assistance with the costs of maintaining your house.
If a person participates in or has family members who participate in certain other benefit programs, such as SNAP, SSI, or TANF, that individual automatically meets the qualifying requirements for other programs.
To qualify, your household’s annual gross income must be less than the following amounts, before taxes are deducted:
| Household Size* | Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
| 1 | $27,180 |
| 2 | $36,620 |
| 3 | $46,060 |
| 4 | $55,500 |
| 5 | $64,940 |
| 6 | $74,380 |
| 7 | $83,820 |
| 8 | $93,260 |
*Add $9,440 for each additional member in a household with more than eight people. Always double-check the instructions with the appropriate controlling agency to confirm that you are following the most recent version.
Where can I find the program’s application?
To find out where and how to apply for assistance, call the number indicated for Catholic Charities.
- Kent County can be reached at (302) 674-1782.
- 302-654-9295 is the number to dial in New Castle County.
- Sussex County’s phone number is 302-856-6310.
Energy Cost Assistance for Low-Income Families
Delaware Weatherization Assistance Program
What is the best way for me to contact you?
If you would like more information on the Delaware Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, please visit their website or call (302) 255-9875
