Privacy Notice and Your Rights and Responsibilities
Privacy Act Provisions: Federal laws require us to tell you about your rights and responsibilities before we collect
and use information about you that is classified as private or confidential. This form provides you with important
information that complies with the federal Privacy Act of 1974, 5 U.S.C. § 552a(e)(3).Please read this Privacy Notice
carefully before completing and signing the Indiana Energy Assistance Program application, and keep this Privacy
Notice in your records for future use. This Privacy Notice applies to the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) and the
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP).
Why do we collect the information on the application?
We will use your information to research, evaluate and administer the EAP and WAP programs. We need the
information:
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To know you from other individuals.
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To see if you qualify for assistance.
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To allow us to get federal or state funds for the assistance you receive.
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To meet federal or state reporting requirements.
Do you have to give us the information?
You have the right to not give us the information we ask for.
What happens if you give or do not give us the information?
If you give us the information requested on the application, your application will be processed. If you do not give us
that information:
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Your application will not be processed.
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You might not receive services.
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You might not receive help with energy bills.
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Your services might be delayed.
We will keep whatever information you give us, whether or not your application is approved.
Who may see this information?
The following persons may receive information contained in your application if: (i) they need access to the
application information to do their jobs in connection with the EAP and WAP, or (ii) they are otherwise authorized
by federal or state law to receive it, or (iii) they use the information for reports, to measure outcomes, and for
referrals and eligibility purposes:
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Local Energy Programs Service Providers under contract with IHCDA.
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Program auditors as required or permitted by Office of Management and Budget (OMB) circulars.
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United States Departments of Health and Human Services and Energy.
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Persons so authorized pursuant to court order or subpoena.
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Your energy companies for affordability and Energy Programs.
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United States Social Security Administration.
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Lifeline/Telephone Assistance Plan for verifying program eligibility.
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Other agencies or entities as allowed by federal or state law.
Why do we collect Social Security Numbers?
We use Social Security Numbers in the administration of the EAP and WAP to assure eligible applicants and their
household members receive only allowable benefits. Federal law allows us to require you to disclose your Social
Security Number in order to process your application and to prevent, detect and correct fraud and abuse.
AUTHORITY: Section 205(c)(2)(C)(i) of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 405(c)(2)(C)(i).
Why do we ask for information about your race?
This is voluntary information. It is compiled and recorded for statistical purposes only. The program does not
discriminate for reasons of race or ethnic background, religion, gender, sexual orientation or political affiliation.