Cost-Free Window Replacement
Everybody wants to live in a lovely, tidy, and reasonably priced house with electrical appliances and doors functioning properly. Damaged or broken windows, however, are one extremely significant aspect that, if ignored, can seriously empty our bank funds each year. The key to energy efficiency is having strong windows.
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This has a very straightforward explanation. Similar to a broken external wall, if a window has any gaps, cracks, or other defects, outside air will seep in and the air conditioning or heating will soon escape. This ultimately leads to increased electricity costs and a great deal of wasted electricity, which is totally unacceptable in terms of the environment and budget. Furthermore, replacing a window is a costly task that puts a great pressure on individuals who already have a low income due to increased living expenses. Fortunately, though, if you are eligible for a unique federal government program, like the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), supported by the US Department of Energy (DOE), there is now a method to get a window replaced for free. How then does one approach this? The specific qualifying situations are mentioned below, along with the actions that need to be completed appropriately in order to be awarded this grant.
First, Make Sure You Are Eligible
While there are other programs that give grants for replacing windows, WAP is the most well-known. Keep in mind that the rules for government grant programs may be different in each state.
You have to meet a certain set of requirements in order to get the WAP government grant, no matter what state you live in. If you meet at least one of the following, you must show proof that you live in and are a citizen of the United States:
– You are at least 60 years old.
– One of the people in your household is disabled.
– You are getting supplemental security income (SSI).
– You are getting money to help care for kids who are too young to be on their own.
– Your yearly income doesn’t go over 200% of the poverty line, or less based on the size of your family. For example, if you live alone, you can’t make more than $27,180 a year. This limit will go up if you live with other people, and it will depend on how many people live in the home.
In the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia, the poverty line starts at $13,590 a year for one person and goes up to $46,370 for a family of eight. For every extra person, an extra $4,720 will be added. Alaska’s annual limit is $16,990 for one person and $58,290 for eight people. 5,900 will be added for each extra person living in the house. In Hawaii, the most that one person can get in a year is $15,630, and the most that 8 people can get is $53,640. For each extra person, an extra $5,430 is added.
Locate a Local Weatherization Provider in Step 2
Prior to moving on, if you rent an apartment or a house, you must first speak with your landlord to find out if replacing the window is permitted. There is a good chance that your landlord will support this award for two reasons. First and foremost, adding a brand-new, sturdy window would undoubtedly increase the property’s worth and help the landlord later on when more prospective tenants stop by to view it. Second, over time, it also saves the landlord a significant sum of money.
If you are approved, head over to your city’s website and search under the “How to Apply” section for a list of local businesses or groups that provide weatherization services. While some states allow you to apply online straight from their website, the majority will need you to get in touch with the local suppliers. This list gives you an address, phone number, and/or website and is usually arranged by county.
Conclude The Weatherization Application Procedure In Step 3
Contact the nearest weatherization provider you have identified to initiate the application process. Pay receipts or social security payments will be required as evidence of income for the prior year by your local provider. To obtain additional information and specifics concerning income verification, please consult the Poverty Income Guidelines and Definition of Income provided by HHS.
Get The Window Area Ready For Weatherization Assistance In Step 4
Last but not least, it is strongly advised that you have your house ready before the servicemen show up to install the new window, assuming all goes well and it is found that you are qualified.
Make every effort to ensure that the space around the window is clear of any bulky objects or furniture that could obstruct it. This may cause the procedure to drag on longer than required, taking more time out of your day. The installers would also really appreciate this, as they have other projects to finish that day and are on a strict schedule.
Closing Remarks
It’s crucial to remember that there is a priority list, which includes elderly people, people who are ill, injured, or crippled, etc. Therefore, the number of days before installation may vary based on your particular situation.
