Jane Olson with Eau Claire County's Energy Assistance Program. She says the cold weather, high gas prices, unemployment rates, and the increase in energy costs is causing people to sign up for assistance.

"We've had an increase in payments that we've issued, not the amount of payments, but the fact that more payments have gone out, so we know that there's a higher need," Olson says.

Xcel Energy says heating bills could be up 15-percent this winter.

The Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program helps people in the state pay their energy bills.

Last year more than 3,000 households were approved in Eau Claire County alone. So far this year around 2,000 have already applied.

The amount of applications is substantially higher in Chippewa County...and winter isn't over yet.

Those accepted can get financial help based on their household size and income.

"We look at the last three months of income for the household. So for this month we would look at October, November and December income. We look at gross and actual income for those three months. And it counts all income whether it's earned or unearned,” Olson says.

The funds either go directly to the utility company or to the recipient.

Olson says the application process is rather short. If the resident comes prepared, he or she may know the amount of assistance they will get the same day.

Those interested have until May 15th to apply for heating assistance. To do so contact the Department of Health and Human Services in your county.