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d. Repair or replacement cost for furnaces, air conditioners and heaters, e. Insulation repair, f. Coats and blankets, as tangible benefits to keep individuals warm, g. Crisis payments for utilities and utility deposits, h. Purchase and installation of fans, air conditioners and heaters, i. Purchase and installation of generators, j. Costs associated with mobile outreach, and k. Other needed items (contact DCS for approval). The costs related to utility cost such as utilities, deposits, reconnect fees, and late fees are counted against the annual matrix amount per household. Other costs shall not be counted against the annual matrix benefit amount per household. D. Subgrantees shall, under no circumstances, state the applicant must have a disconnect notice to apply for assistance. This may put a household in a crisis situation which could be avoided by assisting with regular LIHEAP assistance. E. Applicants who are ineligible for crisis benefits shall be referred to other organizations that may be able to assist, or the subgrantee may contact energy vendor(s) on the applicant’s behalf to see if a payment arrangement or extension is available. F. Multiple emergency requests by a client may result in the subgrantee referring client to CSBG program for intensive case management. However, case management is not a requirement for LIHEAP services. Source: Miss. Code Ann. § 43-1-2(4); Miss. Code Ann. § 43-1-4. Revised: January 2026 Part 24 Chapter 8: Vendor Requirements

Rule 8.1 Vendor Agreements.

A. Subgrantees must secure vendor agreements from energy vendors who receive energy payments on behalf of clients. New vendor agreements must be obtained annually, if terms change or by MDHS requirement.

B. W-9 forms from each vendor must be added to the Virtual ROMA system by the Fiscal Officer/appointee. W-9 forms must be dated within the last 12 months. DCS will approve all vendor request before services can be rendered.