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PY26 WHEAP Manual
Revised: August 2025 Appendix D | Program Year (PY) 2026 WHEAP Manual Summary of Changes The table below is a quick reference guide of key changes made to the PY26 WHEAP Manual. The list is not all inclusive of every change, nor is it a direct policy reference. All policies listed below shall be reviewed in entirety in the full PY26 WHEAP Manual. Changes in the manual that are effective as of October 1, 2025 are highlighted in yellow. Changes in the manual that are effective as of February 20, 2026 are highlighted in blue. Section Number Section Title Summary of Change n/a HE+ Help Desk Procedure • Added – HE+ Help Desk Procedure Chapter 1 Definitions and Acronyms • Moved – Chapter 10 to Chapter 1; updated all chapter numbering accordingly • Added – Common program acronyms 2.1 Program Description WHEAP • Added – Description of LIHEAP • Added – Added details on Commitment to Community Program 2.8.2 Hearings • Added – Division of Hearing and Appeals address and updated wording for Step 3 • Updated – Clarified steps for “General Fair Hearing Procedures” 3.1 General Eligibility Rules and Guidelines • Updated – Clarification regarding customer who had challenges in scheduling an appointment prior to May 15 • Added – Information about online applications that were not in “submitted” status prior to May 15 3.2.2.2 Roomers • Removed – Individuals living in common space with other residents and who rent separate rooms • Updated – Clarification regarding common living space and common address 3.2.3.3.2 Religiously Exempt from Social Security • Added – Clarification regarding Religiously Exempt from Social Security and Medicare taxes Table 3.2 Energy Burden • Removed – Applicants sharing common living areas 3.2.6.4 Household Members Not Included on Application • Added – Contact the HE+ Help Desk when foster children are placed long term