The government shutdown has delayed payments from the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP for Wisconsin’s Home Energy Assistance Program. The Wisconsin Department of Administration expects continued delays, though Assistant Deputy Secretary Diana Maas noted late funding is not unusual. Last year, the program aided 186,000 households with $136 million for heating and electric bills, and similar need is expected for Program Year ’26. Maas stressed that a winter moratorium prevents heat disconnection until April 15, and urges eligible low-income residents to absolutely apply, despite the delay. Also, residents can re-apply if financial circumstances change. More information is available on the Energy and Housing website or by calling 211.