The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Energy that pays for energy efficiency improvements to homes owned or rented by income-eligible households. Unlike utility bill assistance programs that help with your current bill, weatherization reduces your energy costs permanently by improving the home itself.
The average investment per home is roughly $7,000–$10,000 worth of professional work — at no cost to the homeowner or renter who qualifies.
What Weatherization Services Cover
Work is tailored to each home based on an energy audit. Common improvements include:
- Insulation — attic, wall, floor, and basement insulation to reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer
- Air sealing — sealing cracks, gaps, and openings in the building envelope around outlets, plumbing, and structural joints
- HVAC system repairs or replacement — furnace tune-ups, heat pump repairs, duct sealing, and in some cases full system replacement when existing equipment is unsafe or beyond repair
- Water heater upgrades — replacing old, inefficient water heaters
- Window and door improvements — in cases where these are a significant source of energy loss
- Health and safety measures — carbon monoxide detectors, smoke alarms, and addressing hazards that arise from or are related to the weatherization work (like combustion safety)
Who Qualifies
Income eligibility is set at 200% of the federal poverty level or 60% of the state median income, whichever is higher. In practice, this covers a fairly broad range of low- to moderate-income households.
Both homeowners and renters may qualify, though renters need their landlord’s written permission for the work. Some local agencies prioritize renters in multi-unit buildings because one project serves multiple households.
Priority is given to:
- Households with elderly adults (60+)
- Households with young children (under 6)
- People with disabilities
- Households with the highest energy burden relative to income
How the Program Works
- A certified energy auditor visits your home to assess where energy is being lost and what improvements would have the greatest impact
- Based on the audit, a list of approved work is determined using a cost-benefit analysis
- State-approved contractors perform the work at no charge to you
- A follow-up inspection verifies the work meets quality standards
WAP vs. LIHEAP: Two Different Programs
- LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program): pays your current heating or cooling bills. Short-term relief for existing costs. See our Utility Bill Assistance guide
- WAP: permanent physical improvements to the home that reduce your future energy bills. Long-term investment, not bill payment
Many households apply for both. They serve different needs and you can receive both types of help.
How to Apply
- Apply through your local Community Action Agency or your state’s weatherization office. Call 211 to be connected with the local agency in your area
- Find your state’s weatherization program at energy.gov/scep/wap
- Be prepared for a wait list — program funding is limited and demand is high. Apply early, even if you don’t need services immediately
- Each address can typically be weatherized only once under the federal program
State and Utility Energy Programs
In addition to WAP, your state may run its own energy efficiency programs, and your electric or gas utility likely offers rebates or low-cost programs for efficiency upgrades:
- Many utilities offer free energy audits, discounted or free insulation programs, rebates on efficient appliances, and low-interest financing for energy improvements
- Look for your utility’s rebate program on their website, or search “[your utility name] energy efficiency rebates”
- The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (dsireusa.org) lists state and local programs by zip code
Educational only. Weatherization Assistance Program eligibility limits, services covered, and wait times vary by state and change with annual funding allocations. Contact your local Community Action Agency or state weatherization office for current details.