Examples

1) During the interview, Jessica stated that she is not obligated to pay any utilities. However, she spends about $50 every other month to buy wood for the fireplace to heat her home.

Since the fireplace that uses wood is the source to heat the home, Jessica is eligible for the Standard Utility Allowance (SUA).

2) Tracy is billed $60 for electricity and $25 for telephone. She meets the definition of elderly. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) pays the electric and telephone companies directly as a vendor payment for the full amounts.

Since Tracy receives LIHEAP and her household includes an elderly participant, Tracy is eligible for the Standard Utility Allowance (SUA).

3) Casey receives $75 monthly from Section 8 to assist with his utilities. Casey states during the interview his house uses central air conditioning for cooling and central heating. Casey provides an electric bill of $120.

Since Casey incurs a heating or cooling cost and his utility expenses exceed his Energy Assistance payment, Casey is eligible for SUA.

4) Maria states she is obligated to pay $20 for gas and telephone. Maria states the gas is used for their gas stove for cooking.

Since Maria is not obligated to pay for a heating or cooling cost but is obligated to pay for two non-heating or cooling utility expenses, she is eligible for the Limited Utility Allowance (LUA).