Michigan Poverty Law Program (MPLP) recently uncovered a critical concern for Michigan veterans, people with disabilities, and seniors, and is working to mitigate harm to these groups.
Michigan's "Heat and Eat" initiative previously provided a $20.01 annual LIHEAP payment to low-income households, automatically qualifying them for the maximum Heating and Cooling Standard Utility Allowance (“the HC allowance”). This increased shelter deductions and boosted monthly SNAP grants without requiring detailed utility verification.
Two key policy changes recently dismantled this program:
- Federal Restrictions (H.R. 1): Restricted "Heat and Eat" eligibility exclusively to households with seniors, individuals with disabilities, or veterans.
- State Budget Elimination: Michigan eliminated the budget allocation to make the nominal payments to all households, without retaining the payments to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. This was done with no notice or media coverage.
In July 2026, state system updates triggered notices reducing SNAP benefits due to lower shelter deductions. These notices lacked critical explanation—failing to explain why the deduction changed or that submitting actual utility bills could restore the HC allowance. Early reporting on this issue revealed the confusion and uncertainty it created for seniors. Following MPLP advocacy, the Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) agreed to issue clearer follow-up communications and MIBridges updates.
The automated notices informed recipients that their budget was decreasing due to a change in their “shelter deduction.” The notices failed to explain why the shelter deduction changed (i.e., the loss of the automated HC allowance). They also did not inform recipients that submitting actual, out-of-pocket utility expenses could restore their HC allowance and preserve their benefit level. This was also a missed opportunity to notify recipients of the home heating credit availability and deadline on Sept. 30 that could make them eligible.
After MPLP’s advocacy with MDHHS, the Department agreed to issue clear, detailed follow-up communications. Improved notices, targeted notifications on MIBridges, and informational campaigns on the Department’s social media platforms are expected shortly to help clarify recipient rights and options.
Legal aid attorneys and client advocates can help their clients by taking the following steps:
1. File a Hearing Request Immediately
If a client received an unexpected notice reducing their SNAP budget due to a shelter deduction change, preserve their rights right away:
- Request a Hearing: File the request immediately upon receipt of the notice.
- Protect Continuing Benefits: Request aid paid pending where applicable to keep benefit levels stable while resolving the underlying utility documentation.
2. Update and Document All Utility Expenses
Clients can still receive the higher HC allowance if they can prove they pay out-of-pocket heating or cooling costs.
- Include Air Conditioning: Ensure clients report all summer cooling costs (e.g., electric bills associated with running window units or central air).
- Submit Verification Quickly: Help clients collect and submit current utility bills, lease agreements showing utility responsibility, or landlord statements in the head of household's name.
3. Encourage Immediate Home Heating Credit Applications
Advise potentially eligible clients to apply for the Michigan Home Heating Credit as soon as possible–before September 30, 2026. Obtaining energy assistance through standard LIHEAP pathways can help demonstrate energy burden and qualify households for appropriate utility allowances.
MPLP is working with lawmakers to seek restoration of “Heat & Eat” for Michigan seniors, people with disabilities, and veterans. By staying proactive and guiding clients through utility verification, legal aid attorneys can mitigate the severe impacts of these policy shifts. Prompt action ensures that low-income households do not unnecessarily forfeit essential SNAP benefits due to automated system reductions. Through targeted advocate outreach and clear documentation, Michigan families can continue to access critical nutritional support.