How are Grants Determined?

Maryland Energy Assistance (MEAP)

The exact amount of the Maryland Energy Assistance grant you receive is based on three factors:

1. type of fuel used
2. household income
3. area within the state where you live.

Your grant is sent to your heating supplier after your completed application is received, approved and processed at your local OHEP office. If heat is included in your rent payment, your grant is sent to your landlord. Your landlord must agree to allow you to deduct the grant amount from your rent payments. Remember, the grant only covers part of your heating costs. The grant is a one-time only payment per heating season.

Energy assistance will not reduce the amount of any other public assistance benefits you receive, such as TCA or Food Stamps. Nor will it reduce Social Security benefits.

Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP)

The Electric Universal Service bill payment assistance grant is determined by:

1. Household income;
2. Electric use over the past 12 months

Your grant is sent to your Electric Company. The Electric Universal Service component to pay past due bills, is based on:

1. Household income;
2. The amount of your past due bill;
3. The maximum amount payable is $2,000.

If you qualify for and request WAP assistance you will be contacted by the WAP office prior to receiving benefits through this program.