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Alabama's Poverty Fighting Network

Community Action Association of Alabama

For Alabama Residents

Document checklist for assistance appointments

ID, income verification, utility bill, lease and household composition — what agencies usually ask for.

Checklist
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Energy
Housing
Getting started
Updated January 30, 2026

Resource detail

Bringing the right paperwork to your first appointment is the single biggest thing that speeds up a decision. Use this checklist as a starting point and confirm details with your agency.

Identity and household

  • Photo ID for the applicant
  • Social Security numbers or documentation for everyone in the household
  • Birth certificates or records for children in the household
  • Proof of address such as a lease, mortgage statement or current utility bill

Income for the last 30 days (all adults)

  • Pay stubs or an employer statement
  • Award letters for Social Security, SSI, SSDI, unemployment, VA or retirement income
  • Child support or alimony records
  • A signed zero-income statement if no one in the household has income

For energy or utility help

  • Your most recent power and gas bills, in the applicant's name where possible
  • Any shutoff or disconnection notice, which usually moves you into crisis processing
  • Account numbers for each utility

Before you go

Call to confirm the current document list and whether intake is by appointment. If documents are missing, ask what substitute proof the agency accepts rather than delaying the application.

Official sources and further reading

Back to the Resource HubFind your local agency

Source: Composite of intake requirements published by Alabama Community Action Agencies and ADECA LIHEAP guidance.

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