Weatherization Assistance Program

The goal of the Weatherization Assistance Program is to reduce energy costs for low-income families, particularly the elderly, disabled and those with children under age 12, by improving the energy efficiency of their homes while ensuring their health and safety.  This program is not a window replacement program.

Weatherization Facts:

  • Over 7 million families served since inception in 1976.
  • Low-income families pay an average of 16.3% of their annual income for energy, compared with 5% for other households.
  • The average energy expenditure in low-income households is $1,267 annually.
  • The Weatherization Assistance Program saves program participants an average of $283 annually and returns an average of $2.78 in energy and non-energy related benefits for every dollar invested.

(Source: U.S. Department of Energy)

About The Program

Who Is Eligible?

Low-income homeowners whose total gross household income is no more than 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (see fact sheet below for poverty guidelines). Preference is given to elderly (60 years-plus), physically disabled residents, families with children under 12 and households with a high energy burden (repeated high utility bills), including those participating in the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Applicants must be residents of Hillsborough, Hernando, Pasco, Polk, Sumter, Citrus, or Volusia Counties.

Funding

The Weatherization Assistance Program is funded by The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) with supplemental funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Funds are administered by the State of Florida’s Department of Commerce (DOC).

Services Available

Based on pre-inspection diagnostic testing of your home, and available funding, your home may be eligible for a variety of energy saving measures which may include the following, in order of priority:

  • Health and safety measures may include the installation of smoke detectors, carbon dioxide detectors, and/or kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans.
  • Pre-approved measures could include installation of water heater pipe insulation, water heater tank insulation, faucet aerators, lighting retrofits, and low flow shower heads.
  • Infiltration reduction measures may include weatherstripping, duct sealing, attic and floor insulation, repair or replacement of inefficient exterior doors, thresholds; and, minor wall, floor, and ceiling repair.
  • Installation of solar window screens.
  • Refrigerator replacement *only if audit and diagnostic testing recommends replacement.
  • HVAC system replacement *only if audit and diagnostic testing recommends replacement.

Weatherization is not a window replacement program.

Not included in this energy efficiency program: Roof replacement or repairs, mold remediation, plumbing, electrical, wells, septic, ramps, etc.

Complete A Quick Application

All applications for services must be filled out completely and include the required documents in order to be processed. Incomplete applications will be denied. Please read this important information before submitting an application for assistance.

Documents needed for assistance include:
• Valid photo identification for all household members 18 years of age and older
• Electric bill for each month requesting payment (if you do not have copies of your electric bill for each month you are past due, contact your energy supplier or create a login account on their website to obtain them)
• Social Security cards (for all household members)
• Birth certificates for all children living in the household
• Proof of income (any income received – i.e. child support, cash assistance, etc.)
• SNAP (food stamp) award or denial letter. and
• Lease (if applicable).

You Thrive Florida staff will never ask clients for personal information to “update You Thrive Florida payroll records” as part of the application process. If you receive an email with this request please contact us immediately to report the request.

Contact Us

We look forward to helping answer any questions you may have. We invite you to complete the form and a representative will reach out to you.

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