Executive Summary
Income is a primary lens through which many programs are delivered. When developing or evaluating a program, there are benefits and consequences to choosing different income levels and verification methods, as it will impact the communities being served. The income verification process can often be burdensome and systematically excludes significant numbers of eligible individuals in frontline communities needing assistance. In this work, Community Energy Project supports policies and programs to change the income verification process to be more equitable, more respectful to clients, and more cost-effective.

Introduction
Community Energy Project (CEP) is a community based organization that believes everyone deserves a safe, healthy and efficient home, regardless of income. We do this by providing repairs, weatherization, energy efficiency upgrades, community education and supplies, for vulnerable and underserved populations. CEP also utilizes on-the-ground experience to inform decision-makers at the policy level. Our clients include people experiencing low income, seniors, people with disabilities, women, people of color, immigrants, and other historically marginalized groups. CEP’s priorities in choosing the appropriate income definitions and verification methods are equity, respect, and cost-effectiveness.

Please read the full document to better understand how Community Energy Project defines and verifies low-income participants.