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ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Section Seven: Acronyms and Definitions Intake, Operations & Policy Manual

Program Year 2026 90 the following: applicant, relatives, State or company providing home assistance payments. An attendant (regardless of who pays) is an independent employee. Completed Application – An application is completed when responses to all application questions have been verified, appropriate documentation has been provided, and both the applicant and intake worker have signed the application. Commitment Date – The date a utility or fuel vendor has been notified of an agency commitment. Crisis Assistance Payment – The assistance provided to help low-income households resolve crisis situations, including but not limited to, supply shortages, loss of household heating or cooling, minor fuel source repairs, heating or cooling equipment repairs and other situations as described in the manual. Declaration of Household Income Form (DHI) – A form required for households claiming no income, or irregular/personal income (See Personal Income definition.). Denied Application – An application is denied when it has been completed and signed, but the applicant fails to meet program eligibility requirements. Direct Payment – Wherever possible, payments should be made directly to the utility or vendor. However, in some cases, a LIHEAP benefit must be paid directly to the household. (See Section Three). Disabled – Persons who are unable to engage in any substantial paid activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment. Eligible – Households whose verified income is in accordance with the LIHEAP/OEAP Benefits Matrix Form and are partially or fully responsible for their home heating or cooling expenses. Employed – Having a job that pays wages or a salary on a regular basis. Energy Assistance Payment – A payment made under the LIHEAP/OEAP programs to or on behalf of an eligible household. Energy costs included in rent– heating costs are included as an undifferentiated part of their rent payment. Energy or Client Education – An activity intended to help program participants effectively and measurably lower energy usage and home energy bills for program participants.