Dec. 11. Mecklenburg County is helping low-income households with energy costs this winter through one-time payments of $300, $400, or $500 under its Low Income Energy Assistance Program.

Eligible adults 60 and older, or disabled individuals receiving help through the N.C. Division of Aging and Adult Services, can apply starting Dec. 10. All other households can apply beginning Jan. 1.

To qualify, households must have at least one eligible U.S. citizen or legal resident, be responsible for heating costs, and provide proof of income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level for applicants 60 and older, or 130% for those under 60. Income eligibility is based on a sliding scale that considers family size.

Applicants must also provide proof of identification, a utility bill in their name, and a Social Security number.

Applications can be submitted online with North Carolina ePASS, emailed to Energy-CIP-LIEAP@MeckNC.gov, dropped off in person at the Woodard Community Resource Center or the Scarborough Community Resource Center in Charlotte, or completed by phone at 704-336-3000.

Applications will be accepted through March 31. Payments could take four to six weeks to be processed.