Maryland Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is for low-income households that can’t afford to pay their utility bills. These houses can become energy efficient and reduce their fuel consumption by using WAP services.

Maryland WAP is funded jointly by U.S Department of Energy (DOE) and state of Maryland. Some additional sources also provide funding for distribution of weatherization services to low-income households.

Maryland WAP services help eligible households to reduce their dependence on fuel for keeping their home at reasonable temperature throughout the year. These benefits will ultimately help the troubled households to reduce cost of maintenance for their homes.

Maryland WAP will determine type of services to be provided to a household after conducting a free energy audit. The energy audit will determine the services that are necessary to bring improvement in the house. These may include blower door air leakage reduction, attic, floor, and wall insulation, hot water improvement, furnace cleaning and repairing, lighting replacement with energy efficient lights, and implementation of safety measures.

Maryland WAP gives priority to households with elderly, disabled, and children. Since the program aims to help the most vulnerable, priority is also provided to households with high-energy costs and low income. WAP services are available for both homeowners and renters. However, renters will need to obtain consent of their landlord in order to receive weatherization services through WAP. The Rental Property Investment Program, which is a sub program of WAP, can help renters improve their home and make it energy efficient.

In order to receive free weatherization services through Maryland WAP, you will need to apply for the program through your local community action agency. Once your application is received and your eligibility has been determined, local community action agency will perform an energy audit to determine WAP services your household requires to become more energy efficient.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to receive Maryland WAP benefits, your household will need to meet eligibility criteria for the program. Here are requirements for Maryland WAP.

• Applicant should be a U.S citizen or an eligible alien

• Applicant should be a resident of Maryland

• Applicant’s household income should be within income limits as set by the program, which is currently set at 200% of the Federal Poverty Line (FPL)

Income Eligibility

Here are income limits according to size of household.

Family size Annual gross income limit

1. $22,340

2. $30,260

3. $38,180

4. $46,100

5. $54,020

6. $61,940

7. $69,860

8. $77,780

If your household has more people, you can add $3,960 for each additional person to compute annual gross income limit.

WAP Application Instructions

To apply for Maryland WAP, you will have to contact your local energy assistance office. You can find your nearest energy assistance office using this link.

If you are unable to visit your nearest office due to old age, medical needs, or disability, then you can call your local energy assistance office to arrange a home visit. You can call at 1-800-352-1446.