With bitter cold temperatures expected to continue in the Philadelphia area there is still time for low-income residents to apply for federal heating grants before the money runs out.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can provide a cash grant of up to $1,000 per customer. These are directly paid to a utility or other vendor, like PECO. Grants can cover payments to get service restored and the maximum grant funding for emergencies is $500.

Annual household income limits apply. A one-person household must not earn more than $17,505 while an eight-person household can earn a maximum annual stipend of $60,135. Add $6,090 for each additional person.

To be eligible, annual household income cannot exceed 150 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines or $17,505 one-person household; $23,595 two-person household;  $29,685  three-person household; $35,775  four-person household.

Last winter the program delivered grants totaling $14.5 million. This year the application window for grants will stay open through the beginning of April.

PECO’s low-income customers must apply as soon as possible to take advantage of less than $66 million in assistance remaining as part of this federal program.  According to the company, more than 30,000 customers have already received $8.2 million in LIHEAP assistance this winter to help pay their heating bills.

Customers can apply by calling 1-800-34-HELP-4, visiting Peco or by visiting PECO's District Office at 2301 Market Street in Philadelphia.