AMERICANS have been warned they have limited time to claim more than a hundred dollars in heating credit – or risk missing out this winter.
Residents in one state have just days remaining to apply for the support, which is designed to help low-income households with the cost of keeping their homes warm.
Michigan residents have until September 30 to file for the Home Heating Credit before applications close.
Last year, eligible households received an average credit of around $171.
The program has been also set up to help the elderly, those with disabilities and families with young children, with both renters and homeowners eligible for the grant.
However, “this is a time-limited opportunity,” warns Amy Epkey, director of Michigan’s department of health and human services.
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“If residents do not file by the end of September, they cannot claim the credit later.”
To apply, residents will need identification and a summary of heating costs from their utility provider.
They are able to complete the online or through mail, which is available on the Michigan government website under Home Heating Credit Information.
Priscilla Perkins, president and CEO of the Accounting Aid Society, said it was essential that families “get ahead” of their winter heating costs now.
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“We’re trying to get the word out now while you’re still warm, and it’s not the pressure of dealing with possible shutoff on a 20-degree day,” she added.
Those that do not qualify include full-time students who have been claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return and those living in college housing or a licensed care facility for the entire year.
If you do not qualify for the home heating credit, you may be eligible for other assistance such as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).