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ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Section One: Application Process Intake, Operations & Policy Manual Program Year 2026 35 • A household member has no income • A household member whose irregular income is the result of occasional work such as mowing lawns, childcare, donating blood, collecting cans/bottles, or a household whose income is from an informal child support agreement • Regular cash gifts-gifts given three consecutive months or more will be counted as income At a minimum the form must contain: • Applicant’s name • Name of adult HH member(s) claiming zero or irregular income • Amount and type of income (if applicable) • The month/time period for which information is being collected • A brief description of how basic needs (shelter, utilities, food) is being met • A statement certifying accuracy of information • An applicant’s signature and the date signed Multiple members of the household may be listed on one (DHI) form and/or other local agency form(s)and the applicant may sign the form for all household members. Local agencies may require applicants and/or households claiming zero income to submit additional information. Staff should verify policies and procedures with their local agency. Self-Employed Clients For applicants who are Self-Employed, income should be based upon the adjusted gross income remaining after the cost of doing business. Business expenses include all costs necessary to maintain the business. Previous year’s losses or expenses are not allowed to be carried forward. All self-employed applicants (including those landlords who own rental properties) should complete the self-employment form. Additional supporting documentation may be required at the local level. Staff should verify policies and procedures with their local agency.