June 26, 2012 — South Dakota is currently accepting LIHEAP applications for FY 2013, which begins July 1 in that state.
For fiscal year 2012, South Dakota received $23.9 million in LIHEAP funding, with which it helped 25,600 South Dakota households. FY 2013 funding is expected to be $17.5 million, so the state will likely serve fewer households.
In response to expected federal funding cuts, South Dakota has adjusted eligibility and benefit levels to ensure as many people as possible continue to receive assistance, according to a news article. South Dakotans whose income is at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty level may qualify for heating assistance this winter. This is equal to $33,408 annually for a family of three. Applications for the 2012-13 winter season are currently being accepted. The application may be downloaded from the LIHEAP website and mailed back.
The state also operates its Energy Crisis Intervention Program from October 1 through March 31.
For more information on South Dakota's, including eligibility requirements and an application visit
http://dss.sd.gov/economicassistance/energyassistance/.
Source: newspapers
