Cold right now?
Emergency (very cold, confused, gas smell, CO alarm): call 911.
Warming centers and shelter: call 211 (24/7) or 211.org. Many cities also use 311.

Heating help in Maryland

Help paying for heat (LIHEAP)

Call: 1-800-332-6347
Apply or learn more
Weatherization help
Who qualifies: Heating, Crisis, Weatherization: 1 person household = 39% SMI 2 person household = 40% SMI 3 person household = 41% SMI 4 person household = 41.70% SMI 5 person household = 42% SMI 6 person household = 42.40% SMI 7 person household = 46% SMI 8 person household = 50.90% SMI
When to apply: Heating: year-round; Winter Crisis: November 1- March 31; Crisis: Year-round; Weatherization: year-round
Full HHS profile for Maryland

Winter shutoff protections

Protected months: Yes (November 1 - March 31)
Protected on cold days: Yes (32°F and below)
Extra protection for illness, age, or disability: Yes

These rules usually cover state-regulated utilities, and often not co-ops, city utilities, or propane and oil delivery. You still owe the bill.

Utility problem? Try the utility first, then the Maryland Public Service Commission: 410-767-8000 (Baltimore) or 800-492-0474; TTY: 800-201-7165.

Anywhere in the U.S.: the energy help line is 1-866-674-6327. LIHEAP never charges a fee to apply.

Heater and carbon monoxide safety

Warmth is a free tool from L8Stage, a nonprofit. It has no ads and no tracking. It is not a government site. Details come from the federal LIHEAP Clearinghouse (HHS) and can change, so confirm with the agency. Checked 2026-09-30.