Energy worker weatherizing a home — Weatherization Assistance Program

Weatherization Assistance Program

What Is the Weatherization Assistance Program?

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federal program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy that provides free home energy improvements to low-income households. Unlike bill assistance programs that help pay current energy costs, WAP makes permanent physical improvements to your home — insulation, air sealing, heating system upgrades — that reduce your energy bills every month going forward with no repayment required.

Who Qualifies?

  • Household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level (approximately $29,160/year for a single person in 2025)
  • Both homeowners and renters qualify — renters need landlord permission
  • Seniors age 60 and older receive priority for available funding
  • Households with a member who has a disability receive priority
  • Households with young children also receive priority

What Does It Cover?

A trained energy auditor visits your home, identifies where energy is being lost, and determines which improvements will provide the greatest savings. Common improvements include:

  • Insulation — attic, walls, and floors
  • Air sealing to stop drafts around windows, doors, and penetrations
  • Furnace and boiler repair or replacement
  • Water heater upgrades
  • LED lighting and efficient appliances in some cases
  • Health and safety repairs related to the heating system

How Much Can You Get?

The average investment per household is approximately $5,000 in improvements, though homes with significant needs can receive up to $10,000 or more. The improvements typically reduce energy bills by 10–35%, saving hundreds of dollars per year permanently. There is no loan, no lien on your property, and no repayment required.

How to Apply

  1. Find your local weatherization agency at energy.gov/scep/weatherization-assistance-program or through your state energy office.
  2. Dial 2-1-1 to be referred to your local community action agency, which administers WAP in most areas.
  3. Apply through your state’s LIHEAP office — many states coordinate LIHEAP and WAP together, so one application may cover both programs.
  4. Gather your documents. You will need proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension statement, or tax return), proof of residence, and recent utility bills.
  5. Schedule your energy audit. Once your application is approved, a trained auditor will visit your home to assess what improvements will provide the most benefit.

Key Things to Know

  • The improvements are completely free — no loan, no lien, no repayment
  • If you rent, your landlord must agree in writing; federal rules require that at least 66% of weatherization benefits go to the tenant, not the landlord
  • Funding is limited and waitlists exist in many states — apply as early as possible
  • WAP can be combined with LIHEAP energy assistance and utility company discount programs
  • The program has been operating since 1976 and has served more than 7 million homes nationwide

Related Programs

Weatherization works best when combined with other energy assistance: