Charleston, W.V. (AP) -- Low-income residents can begin applying next month for funds to help pay their energy bills this winter.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said Thursday that applications will be accepted from Dec. 1 to Dec. 12 for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Residents who received energy assistance last year will receive applications by mail.

Applications can be obtained at local West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources offices, Community Action agencies or qualified senior centers.

Eligibility is determined by income, household size and whether the homeowner is responsible for paying heating bills. Income must be at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty guideline for the household size.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)