Mississippi Weatherization Assistance (WAP) gives free services to low-income households so that they can improve energy efficiency of their homes and reduce cost of fuel. Houses using weatherization services see a significant reduction in energy consumption. The house becomes weather resistance and maintains its temperature. As a result, lesser fuel is needed to achieve bearable interior temperature.

The program gives priority to the most vulnerable households. Therefore, households with high fuel costs and low income, an elderly person, a disabled person, or children will receive priority. Those receiving SSI or TANF assistance will also get priority for WAP. Households already enrolled for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will be enrolled for WAP energy audit.

The program determines the kind of weatherization services required for a household after performing an energy audit. An inspector will conduct energy audit after visiting the house and conducting a few tests. Once the tests have been concluded, inspector will prepare a report that will include weatherization services the household needs.

A household can receive number of different services for weatherization in Mississippi. These may include insulation of attic, walls, and ceiling, air sealing, air infiltration, and repairing and replacement of heating/cooling applications. The program also provides free energy education to the income eligible households so that they can improve their lifestyle by adopting energy saving tips. Mississippi WAP services are only one-time services. Households receiving these services usually save up to $400 in energy costs each year.

To receive WAP benefits in Mississippi, you will need to apply with their local Community Action Agency (CAA). The agency will help you with rest of the procedure. However, if you are in Rankin or Simpson County, you may not be able to receive weatherization benefits through WAP. But you can still receive fuel assistance through Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Eligibility Requirements

To receive WAP benefits in Mississippi, you will need to meet the following requirements.

• You should be a resident of Mississippi. If you are residing in another state, look for WAP program for that state, if available.

• You should be responsible for paying home energy costs.

• If you are a renter, you need to obtain permission in writing from your landlord to receive WAP benefits.

• You must meet income guidelines, which are currently equal to 125% of the Federal Poverty Line

Income eligibility

You must meet income eligibility guidelines to receive WAP benefits.

Household size Annual Income limits

1. $13,538

2. $18,213

3. $22,888

4. $27,563

5. $32,238

6. $36,913

7. $41,588

8. $46,263

If more than eight people live in your household, then you can add $4,675 to annual income limit for each additional person.

WAP Application Instructions

You can apply for Mississippi WAP at:

• Community Action Agency office: To apply for Mississippi WAP, you need to locate your nearest office of Community Action Agency (CAA). CAA offices are present in all 82 counties of the state. You can call at 1-800-421-0762 to know location of CAA office in your county. You can also use this (link) webpage to find location of CAA office in your county.

• Human Resource Agency office: You can also apply at Human Resource Agency office in your county.

You can also request an application to be mailed to you if you can’t go to any of these offices. You can call at 601-359-4768 to request an application.