Energy assistance for eligible low income families in which a benefit is paid directly to the utility companies on behalf of eligible households, or directly to renters if the utility costs are included in their rent. Some LIHEAP applicants may qualify for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP), where an eligible client pays a percentage of their income, receives a monthly benefit towards their utility bill, and receives a reduction in overdue payments for every on-time payment they make by the bill due date. If the homeowner's furnace is not working or is dangerous or emitting carbon monoxide into the household, LIHEAP may be able to provide a furnace repair or replacement.