Free Energy & Utility Assistance in Baton Rouge

Many Baton Rouge families struggle to keep up with energy bills, especially during extreme heat and cold. The good news is that there are federal programs, utility company assistance, and local nonprofits that can help. This guide connects you to LIHEAP, weatherization services, utility assistance programs, and 211 support. Each resource below includes verified contact details, eligibility information, and how to apply.

Need help right now? Call 211 for 24/7 support.

Important: Program availability, hours, and funding can change. Always contact organizations directly to confirm details before applying or visiting.

LIHEAP – Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (East Baton Rouge Parish)

LIHEAP is the main federally funded program that helps income-eligible households pay heating and cooling bills. Payments go directly to your utility provider.

Address: 4523 Plank Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70805
Phone: (225) 358-4561
Website: ossbatonrouge.com
City Page: brla.gov
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

  • Seniors age 65+ accepted Mondays

  • General population Tuesday to Thursday until funds are exhausted

  • Walk in or drop off: Monday to Thursday, 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM

Services

  • Heating assistance (November 15 to March 15)

  • Cooling assistance (April 1 to September 30)

  • Crisis assistance year round for shutoff risk

Online application: la.hancocksoftware.com

How to apply

  1. Gather required documents

  2. Apply online, by phone, mail, drop off, or in person

  3. Submit before funds run out

Required documents

  • Photo ID for adults

  • Social Security cards for all household members

  • Current utility bill (within 30 days)

  • Proof of income for last 30 days

  • Shutoff notice if applying for crisis assistance

Cost: Free
Eligibility: East Baton Rouge Parish residents meeting income guidelines with an active utility account

Louisiana Housing Corporation – Statewide LIHEAP Program & Online Portal

The Louisiana Housing Corporation manages LIHEAP statewide and offers an online application option.

Phone: (888) 454-2001
Website: lhc.la.gov/energy-assistance
Online application: la.hancocksoftware.com

Services

  • Online LIHEAP applications in English and Spanish

  • Heating and cooling bill assistance

  • Crisis assistance

  • Directory of local providers

How to apply online

  1. Visit the portal

  2. Create an account

  3. Submit your application and documents

  4. A local agency will follow up

Program dates

  • Heating: November 15 to March 15

  • Cooling: April 1 to September 30

  • Crisis: Year round

Cost: Free
Eligibility: Income based; must be responsible for energy bills

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

The Weatherization Assistance Program helps lower energy bills long term by improving your home’s efficiency.

Website: lhc.la.gov/weatherization
Local provider: quadarea.org/quadweatherization.html
Phone: (225) 209-0780

Services may include

  • Insulation

  • Air sealing

  • Duct repair

  • Heating and cooling system improvements

  • Energy efficiency upgrades

How to apply

  1. Call Quad Area Community Action Agency

  2. Complete a home energy audit

  3. Receive approved upgrades

Cost: Free
Eligibility: Income based, up to 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines

Entergy – The Power to Care Program

Entergy offers emergency bill assistance for older adults and customers with disabilities.

Phone: 1-800-368-3749
Website: billtoolkit.entergy.com/louisiana/help-paying

Services

  • Emergency bill payment assistance

  • Payment extensions

  • Senior discount program

  • Seasonal fan and energy kit distribution

How to apply

  1. Call Entergy

  2. Get referred to a local nonprofit

  3. Complete application with a caseworker

Eligibility:

  • Entergy customers age 60+

  • Or adults with disabilities receiving SSDI

  • Must meet income guidelines

DEMCO – Community Assistance Programs

DEMCO serves rural areas around Baton Rouge and connects members to local assistance programs.

Phone: 844-693-3626
Website: demco.org/community-assistance

LIHEAP & Weatherization Partner Agencies

Contact the appropriate agency based on your location:

  • Catholic Community Services: (225) 336-8700

  • East Baton Rouge Council on Aging: (225) 923-8000

  • Office of Social Services: (225) 358-4561

  • Chaneyville Community Center: (225) 654-3309

  • Delmont Service Center: (225) 389-5464

  • Salvation Army: (225) 355-4483

  • St. Vincent de Paul: (225) 383-7837

DEMCO Foundation – Operation Roundup®

Website: demco.org/foundation
Phone: 844-693-3626

Provides grants up to $2,500 for members facing financial hardship.

How to Find Energy Help Near You

If you are not sure where to start, these resources can help:

Louisiana 211 (United Way)

  • Call: 211

  • Text: your zip code to 898-211

  • Website: louisiana211.org

  • Available 24/7 with multilingual support

LHC Provider Directory

Entergy Bill Help

FindHelp.org

How Nest Health Helps Baton Rouge Families

Nest Health supports families beyond medical care by helping connect them to essential resources like utility assistance.

What Nest Health offers

  • In home and virtual care for the whole family

  • Help connecting to utility, food, and community resources

  • Support navigating Medicaid benefits

  • A whole family approach to care

If you have heard about Nest through your health plan or believe your family may be eligible, call 866-222-NEST (6378) to confirm eligibility and schedule your first visit. Services are covered for eligible families at no additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is LIHEAP?

LIHEAP helps income eligible households pay heating and cooling bills. Payments go directly to your utility provider.

What documents do I need?

You typically need ID, Social Security cards, proof of income, and a current utility bill.

Can I apply online?

Yes. You can apply at la.hancocksoftware.com.

What if my utilities are about to be shut off?

Apply for crisis assistance through LIHEAP or call 211 for immediate help.

I have Entergy. What help is available?

Entergy offers emergency assistance, payment plans, and discount programs.

I have DEMCO. Are programs different?

DEMCO connects members to partner agencies and offers additional support through its foundation.

Is there help to lower bills long term?

Yes. The Weatherization Assistance Program improves home energy efficiency.

Can renters apply?

Yes. Renters may qualify, but landlord approval may be required for some programs.

What if LIHEAP funds run out?

Contact 211 or local nonprofits for alternative assistance options.