Independent Welfare - Heating Cost Subsidy

The Free Welfare – Heating Cost Subsidy in Upper Austria provides socially disadvantaged individuals with a grant to cover the heating costs of their residence, regardless of the energy source. The aim of the funding is to relieve households with low income whose heating expenses represent a significant financial burden. The funding focus is on actual heating costs incurred in the applicant’s own household. Applicants must prove that the monthly net income of all household members is below the specified income limits. Excluded are dependent children, recipients of means-tested minimum social benefits, and asylum seekers under basic care. The subsidy is granted as a one-time payment and has been continuously available since October 2013 under the general funding guidelines of the state in accordance with §§ 1, 9, 13, and 30 of the Upper Austrian Social Assistance Act. Thanks to this funding, a reliable and continuous heat supply is ensured, and social hardships during the cold season are actively alleviated.

Applications are submitted annually within the heating period defined by the state of Upper Austria directly to the municipality of residence. The forms are provided annually by the state of Upper Austria and can be requested from the responsible municipality. In addition to a completed and signed application form, income proofs of all household members, evidence of maintenance payments and scholarships, as well as any other case-specific documents, must be submitted. Incomplete applications will not be processed further for administrative reasons. After verification of the main residence, household community, and income situation, the payment is made exclusively through the municipality. Since the funding is budget-bound, timely submission is essential to ensure prompt disbursement.