Preparing for Changes in SNAP

posted 1/26/23 -- As SNAP recipients benefit levels change next month, families navigating the change in their budgets may be eligible for other programs.

Emergency allotment payments, in place since March 2020, are ending after February 2022 payments are issued. The change is expected to affect 17,000 Lorain County families.

To qualify for SNAP, households must be living at or below 130 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). That means those households likely also qualify for other programs offered by Lorain County Community Action Agency, particularly utility assistance.

Additionally, all SNAP recipients are categorically eligible for Head Start. That means if you receive SNAP, and our program has room for your child, they can be enrolled. Click here to begin your application.

LCCAA operates or processes applications for several utility programs:

 

• Winter Crisis: households whose gas or electric is disconnected or who have received a disconnect notice qualify for emergency help if they live at or below 175% of the FPL. This emergency service requires an appointment with LCCAA which will be conducted over the phone. If you have a disconnect notice, make an appointment right away and your disconnect will be held by the utility company. This program runs through March 31. Make your appointment by clicking here.
• HEAP: the Home Energy Assistance Program is a once per season benefit for households not in a crisis situation who need help paying their bill. Households must be living at or below 175% of the FPL and can apply as early as July 1 before the winter season or as late as May 31 after the season. Credits are applied no early than January. No appointments are needed for HEAP. Apply online at energyhelp.ohio.gov. Online applications can be tracked and can take up to eight weeks. Applications can also be mailed but those cannot be tracked and can take up to 12 weeks.
• PIPP: the Percentage of Income Payment Plan can help households living at or below 175% of the FPL lower their utility payments and avoid crisis situations. PIPP customers pay a total of 10% of their income to their utility companies. No appointments are needed for PIPP enrollment or reverification. Apply online at energyhelp.ohio.gov. Online applications can be tracked and can take up to eight weeks. Applications can also be mailed but those cannot be tracked and can take up to 12 weeks.
• LIHWAP: the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program helps households at or below 175% of the FPL who are behind on their water bills. Sewer fees are also covered and renters can receive assistance even if the bill is in their landlord’s name. Appointments are needed and can be made at www.lccaa.net. Applications can also be made at energyhelp.ohio.gov.

 

For more information on any of these programs, visit our website.