WESTPORT — With summer winding down, the town’s Department of Human Services reminds income-eligible Westport residents that as of Sept. 5 they can apply for help paying winter fuel bills.

The federally funded Connecticut Energy Assistance Program is designed to help eligible households with heating expenses, according to Elaine Daignault, the town’s human services director.

To qualify for CEAP, a household’s gross annual income must be at or below percent of the state median income, which translates into these maximum income levels: one person, $41,553; household of two, $54,338; household of three, $67,124; household of four, $79,910, and for a household of five people, $92,695.

Westport residents who previously qualified for the heating-assistance program through the town’s DHS office will receive application instructions in the mail. 

Those interested in applying for the first time should make an appointment to meet with DHS staff by calling 203-341-1050 or email humansrv@westportct.gov.

Applicants must provide recent copies of heating, electric, water, lease or mortgage statements and other proof of income documents, according to Daignault.

Households with individuals who receive the following benefits may automatically qualify for heating assistance: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Temporary Family Assistance, Supplemental Security Income, State Supplement for the Aged, Blind and Disabled, and Refugee Cash Assistance. 

For more information about Department of Human Services programs, visit the agency’s website.