A new grant of 250 euros has started: Who is eligible to apply?
Starting from October 13, low-income families in some areas of Austria can apply for a new grant of 250 euros for heating costs. This program, which starts in Vorarlberg, aims to alleviate the burden caused by rising energy prices, although the support does not cover all Austrian states. Inflation remains high at 4.0% in September, increasing financial pressures on Austrian families.
According to the site finanz.at, the Vorarlberg government will provide a new heating grant of 250 euros for eligible households. This support targets low-income families to help them cover heating expenses during the upcoming winter season. However, the value of the grant has decreased compared to last year, when the maximum was 330 euros per household, due to the financial constraints faced by the regional government.
Eligibility depends on residence and monthly income. The applicant must be a resident of Vorarlberg and adhere to the specified income limits: an individual’s income must not exceed 1,410 euros per month, while the maximum for two families is 1,920 euros. Larger families have higher limits of up to 2,800 euros for four individuals. The "partial exception rule" allows for the inclusion of those whose income slightly exceeds the limit. The deadline for applications is February 13, 2026.
The amount of support varies significantly between the Austrian states. In Salzburg and Tyrol, the support program of 250 euros ended at the end of September, while the city of Salzburg provided greater support of up to 350 euros. In Burgenland, families can still apply for the "heating price cap" until the end of the year, with support ranging from 50 to 1,000 euros per family, although the regional government has confirmed that the amounts have been "significantly reduced" compared to last year.
Currently, several federal states do not provide any support for heating costs, including Lower Austria and Vienna. Upper Austria is expected to start accepting applications in early 2026, while Styria may launch a new application period later this month. Carinthia has completely abolished the heating allowance and replaced it with a new housing allowance program that supports low-income families in covering housing costs and basic services.
The authorities urge eligible families to apply quickly. In Vorarlberg, applications can be submitted directly to local authorities or online through the official website of the state government, where all necessary details and forms are available.