Alabama Community Action Agencies have now begun receiving their LIHEAP allocations following the federal funding release. While each agency sets its own intake schedule, the following statewide pattern is emerging:
Anticipated Alabama Opening Schedule
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Late December 2025 / Early January 2026:
Many Alabama CAAs expect to begin serving priority households first, including:-
Seniors
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Individuals with medical vulnerabilities
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Households in immediate energy crisis
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January–February 2026:
General public LIHEAP appointments and applications will open, agency by agency, based on available funding and staffing.
As with prior years, Alabama does not have a single statewide opening date. Instead, each CAA will announce its own start date as funds are received and local intake systems are set.
What Alabama Residents Should Know
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Most agencies will utilize phone scheduling, online portals, or in-person appointments, depending on local capacity.
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Funds are limited and typically distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Required documentation usually includes:
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Proof of income for all household members
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Social Security numbers
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Recent heating bill
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Proof of residency
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Residents should follow their local CAA’s website and social media pages for exact appointment dates and instructions.
LIHEAP Eligibility Guidelines
While guidelines vary slightly between states, most LIHEAP programs—including those in Alabama and Georgia—serve households with income below 60% of the state median income.
Priority is often given to:
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Seniors
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People with disabilities
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Families with children under 6
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Households with high energy burden
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Residents experiencing disconnection or out-of-fuel emergencies
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through local Community Action Agencies, not through state offices.
Steps to apply:
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Locate your local CAA
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Check their opening date and appointment process
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Prepare required documentation in advance
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Apply as early as possible—winter demand is high
Stay Updated
Because opening dates differ by county and region, both Alabama and Georgia residents should stay tuned to announcements from:
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Local Community Action Agencies
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SEACAA.org
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CAAAlabama.org
These sites will continue to share LIHEAP updates as additional information becomes available.