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ENERGY PROGRAMS EP-300 LOW INCOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

6 Section 300 Change #2-2026 May 1, 2026 To obtain prompt and accurate information needed to determine eligibility, it is important to establish a good relationship with other agencies, employers, and institutions. Inform them of the program requirements and the importance of receiving prompt and accurate information. c. Public Awareness Inform the public about your agency’s attempt to prevent fraud. This is important both as a deterrent and as a public relations measure. Information regarding court actions taken against fraudulent clients, amount of collections over a period of time, etc., could be periodically offered to the news media. Publicize the telephone number for calling in reports of possible fraud. Emphasize that such reports are kept confidential. If the public realizes the importance of preventing fraud, you may be able to obtain much more information and cooperation. d. Benefit Search To avoid duplicate payments, perform an Energy Benefits Search in NC FAST. The purpose of this search is to assist the county with identifying possible duplicate issuance of benefits. The search can be completed by using social security numbers, addresses, or names. See Job Aid, Energy – Initial/ New LIEAP Application to Case Job 300.05 INTERVIEW REQUIREMENTS A. Applicants are not required to complete applications in the office nor have a face-to-face interview. Applications received in the agency by mail, email, fax, online or dropped off will require an interview, however, this interview can be conducted by telephone. If the applicant cannot be reached by phone, send a DSS-8185 including a date and time for an interview. Refer to the job aid titled Energy-ePASS Application Process in NC FAST Help for guidance on processing online ePASS applications. B. Applicants who contact the agency by phone wanting to apply for LIEAP should be interviewed at that time and offered the opportunity for a telephonic signature. Mail the applicant a form DSS-8185 requesting necessary verifications. Only mail the completed DSS-8178 for signature if applicant declines the option to complete a telephonic signature. 1. Telephonic Signature Option. For phone interviews, clients have the option to provide a telephonic signature over the phone. The worker will summarize the information to which the household assents and allows a verbal signature from the applicant that is documented by the worker. The documentation will be included in a case note in NC FAST to demonstrate that the client has signed the application. Document “Telephone Signature” in the Income Support Application ➔Contact Tab➔Notes