Below average temperatures and heavy snowfall came early in some parts of the country this year. That's one reason why Benefits.gov wants you and your family to be well prepared for the worst that winter can bring.

When temperatures go down, energy bills go up. If you need help making payments this year, the government offers a Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help families pay for increasing energy and fuel costs. Recently, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the availability of more than $670 million in additional grants to states, territories and tribes under LIHEAP to help low income families with their heating bills this winter.

You can also get help to make your home as energy efficient as possible with the Weatherization Assistance Program for Low-Income Persons, resulting in lower energy bills in the future. Check out Ready.gov for tips on preparing your family and home for extreme cold and winter storms.

Winter storms can cause severe damage from ice, strong winds and heavy snow. If you are impacted by a presidentially-declared disaster this winter, visit DisasterAssistance.gov to find and apply for the assistance you may need.

Visit Benefits.gov to use our confidential Benefit Finder to find programs you may be eligible to receive that can help you and your family stay safe and warm this winter season. You can also browse related programs by selecting "Energy Assistance," "Disaster Relief" or "Housing" on the Browse by Category page.