Minnesota Offers $111 Million for Winter Heating Bills
Eligible households can apply for federal energy assistance through the state's Energy Assistance Program this winter.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Utilities
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Should Minnesota government do more to help residents afford winter heating bills?
Minnesota has made approximately $111 million in federal funding available to help residents pay heating bills this winter. The Minnesota Department of Commerce administers the Energy Assistance Program through 28 local service providers, and the program is free to apply for.
Why it matters
Heating costs can add financial strain for families already stretching budgets for groceries, housing and other necessities. The program is designed to help households keep their homes heated during the coldest months.
The program awarded nearly 118,000 households over $92 million in 2026, averaging $556 per household, with maximum benefits of $1,400. About two-thirds of benefits went to homes outside the Twin Cities metro area.
The players
Minnesota Department of Commerce
The state agency that administers the Energy Assistance Program and coordinates with 28 local service providers to deliver heating aid to eligible households.
The details
Eligibility is based on income and household size, and Minnesotans can apply online at mn.gov/home or by calling (800) 657-3710 and pressing 1 to reach a local provider. Assistance can cover energy bills, reconnection or prevention of disconnection, fuel delivery, efficiency and safety education, and repair or replacement of heating systems.
Timeline
Minnesota's Cold Weather Rule protects customers from heating disconnection from October 1 through April 30.
In 2026, the program awarded nearly 118,000 households more than $92 million.
Roadmap
Minnesota's program is funded through the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, which channels federal dollars to states to help low-income households cover winter heating costs. This winter's $111 million allocation continues that federal-to-state funding structure.
Households with income under the program limits can apply for up to $1,400 toward heating bills. Residents facing disconnection can also contact a local provider to request reconnection or prevention help.
The takeaway
Households facing heating costs should apply early in the season rather than waiting for a disconnection notice. Contacting a local service provider can also help with repairs or fuel delivery.
Further reading
For more on how utility costs affect household budgets, see Utilities coverage across the state.
More information
Apply for help through the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program application or by calling (800) 657-3710 and pressing 1.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Pilot Independent.
Live Poll
Should Minnesota government do more to help residents afford winter heating bills?
