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The weather has been nearly perfect over the past few weeks.

But it won't be long before winter hits the Heartland and those heating bills start piling up.

That's why Southern Iowa Economic Development Association wants low income home owners and renters to get signed-up for the low-income heating and assistance program or LIHEAP.

The federally funded program provides financial assistance to qualifying individuals, including the disabled and the elderly, to help pay for part of the cost of heating their homes.

The help is determined by income. A single person household qualifies with an income level around $16,000 per year. A family of six can make up to $46,000 a year and still get help.

The elderly and disabled can start applying for help on Oct. 3, other applicants can submit requests starting Nov. 1.

For more information contact SIEDA at 641-682-8741 or 1-800-622-8340.