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Part 24 Chapter 5: Client Application Process

The State Division of Community Services (DCS) has one application for four three programs LIHEAP, CSBG, and Weatherization. Therefore, an applicant may apply for all programs during the intake process. If the weatherization agency is different from the LIHEAP agency will determine eligibility and then refer the file over to the weatherization agency to complete the assessment. Agencies should offer the client any additional programs administered by that agency. Additionally, agencies should refer applicants to other local programs such as SNAP and TANF, if the applicant is not currently receiving these services.

Rule 5.1 Client Application Process.

The Subgrantees/ Community Action Agencies (CAAs) accept applications throughout the year. When funding is available, eligible families shall be served on a first-come, first-serve basis by the date of application. When funding is not available, clients should still be scheduled for an appointment but denied based on “Grant Award Fully Expended”.

A. As a general rule, only the applicant, spouse of the applicant, or authorized representative of a disabled or elderly applicant are the adults who can be present during the application. The Subgrantee reserves the right to require other adults to remain in the waiting room, especially if the individuals are causing disruption during the application process.

B. If the applicant cannot read, the caseworker must read all forms/declarations to the applicant to ensure the applicant understands what is being signed.

C. The signature of the applicant must be on all applicable documents. A spouse may sign if the head of household is absent. The caseworker should document the reason the head of the household cannot come in for appointment. If the applicant cannot write, the applicant may sign by making an “X” on the signature line. The name must be printed or typed under the “X” by the caseworker, and a witness should sign under the “X”.

* Exceptions to this rule have been noted in Rule 7.9A.

Source: Miss. Code Ann. § 43-1-2(4); Miss. Code Ann. § 43-1-4. Revised: January 2026

Rule 5.2 Before Initiating Application.

A. Applications are initiated through the Common Web Portal (CWP) for all first-time applicants. If an applicant was a previous household member in another case, but is now head of household, a new pre-application must be completed. Pre-applications are web- based and may be submitted on behalf of Mississippi residents only. Applicants may apply for services through the CWP at: www.access.ms.gov