Privacy Notice

Privacy Act Provisions:

Federal and state 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) and the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, Minn. Stat. § 13.04, subd. 2 (also referred to as a Tennessen Warning).

Please read this Privacy Notice carefully before completing and signing the Minnesota Energy Programs Application, and keep this Privacy Notice in your records for future use. This Privacy Notice applies to the Energy Assistance Program (EAP), Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) and Conservation Improvement Program (CIP), also known as Energy Programs.

Why do we collect the information on the application?

We will use your information to research, evaluate and administer the Energy Programs. We need the information:

To know you from other individuals.
To see if you qualify for assistance.
To allow us to get federal or state funds for the assistance you receive.
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 information?

If you give us the information requested on the application, your application will be processed. If you do not give us that information:

Your application will not be processed.
You might not receive services.
You might not receive help with energy bills.
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 Energy Programs application if: (i) they need access to the application information to do their jobs in connection with the Energy Programs (EAP, WAP, and CIP), 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:

Local Energy Programs Service Providers under contract with the Minnesota Department of Commerce (Commerce).
Community Services Block Grant and Minnesota Community Action Grant Service Providers under contract with Commerce.
Program auditors as required or permitted by Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance.
Minnesota Departments of Administration, Commerce, Employment and Economic Development, Human Services, Revenue and MN.IT Services.
United States Departments of Health and Human Services and Energy.
Minnesota Public Utilities Commission.
Minnesota Legislative Auditor.
Persons so authorized pursuant to court order or subpoena.
Your energy companies for affordability, Energy Programs, or other PUC-ordered programs, upon Commerce’s approval
Minnesota Community Action Partnership.
United States Social Security Administration.
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 Energy Programs (EAP, WAP, and CIP) 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). All applicants (except eligible non-citizens) are required to provide a verifiable Social Security Number in order to process your application.

Why do we ask for information about your race?

This is voluntary information. It is compiled and recorded for statistical purposes only. The program cannot discriminate for reason of race or ethnic background, religion, gender, sexual orientation or political affiliation.

2020 Census

You may receive information about the 2020 Census.