Morton County Social Services is accepting applications for the Heating Assistance Program. For eligible households, the program can pay part of the cost of home heating bills during the eligible months of October to May 2010.

For renters whose rent is unsubsidized and whose heat is included in the rent, payment may also be eligible.

Eligibility is partially determined by the adjusted income of all persons living in a household. For example, income can range from $1,747 monthly for a one-person household up to $3,897 for a five-person household. Deductions from the income can be allowed for medical, childcare and child support payments.

An asset level of $10,000 is allowed for each household, plus an extra $5,000 for each person age 60 over.

The program will only pay a percentage of each heating bill during eligible months. Emergency funds are set aside for heating crisis situations when no other resources are available. If a crisis occurs after hours or on a weekend, call the Morton County Sheriff’s Department at 667-3330 or the Mandan Police Department at 667-3250.

For applications or more information, call 667-3395. It is best to call for an appointment before coming to the office. The Morton County Social Service office is located at 200 Second Ave. N.W. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.