Maryland households that need help paying heating and electric bills can apply for grants through the Maryland Department of Human Services Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP). Applications can be made online at marylandbenefits.gov, by calling 1-800-332-6347 to request an application, or in person at a local energy assistance office, according to the department’s how-to-apply page.The program year for fiscal year 2027 runs from July 2026 through June 2027. Energy assistance helps with costs and is not intended to pay the whole bill, according to the OHEP brochure.
Who Qualifies
Eligibility is based on household income. Residents do not need a turn-off notice to qualify, according to the department. The monthly gross income limits for fiscal year 2027 are $2,660 for one person, $3,607 for two people, $4,553 for three, $5,500 for four, $6,447 for five, $7,393 for six, $8,340 for seven, $9,287 for eight, $10,233 for nine and $11,180 for 10. Households of 11 or more should contact the local OHEP office.Households that receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Temporary Cash Assistance benefits in Maryland are categorically eligible. They do not need to complete a separate application or provide additional documentation, according to the department.
How to Apply
Residents can apply online, by phone or in person. The department lists contact information for each county on its page for the local energy assistance office.
What to Bring
The department says an application needs the applicant’s photo ID, proof of residency, Social Security cards for all household members, gross income for the last 30 days, and a utility bill and heating bill.
Help With Past-Due Bills
Eligible customers may receive a grant of up to $2,000 toward a past-due electric bill and up to $1,000 toward a past-due gas bill, according to the department. The past-due bill must be $300 or more. Customers may receive an arrearage grant only once every five years, with certain exceptions.
What Happens Next
According to Maryland 211, benefits will increase by up to 32 percent in the 2026-27 season, and it can take three to four weeks to be notified of eligibility. A letter is sent by mail and funds are sent to the utility company. Residents who have questions can contact their local OHEP office.
