Illinois 2017 Energy Assistance Programs Available October 1st for Seniors, People with Disabilities

In Illinois, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible low-income households pay for home energy services (primarily heating during winter months). Energy costs can place severe and continuing stress on a family’s budget. In some instances, households are forced to make painful decisions regarding which bills to pay and which necessities to survive without. Illinois residents with a household income that does not exceed an amount determined annually by the Department of Commerce are eligible. Annual eligibility levels are determined based on available funding and may not exceed 150% of the federal nonfarm poverty level.

The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) is available for LIHEAP eligible households who are customers of one of the following utilities: Ameren Illinois, ComEd, Nicor Gas and Peoples Gas/North Shore Gas. Under PIPP, eligible households pay a percentage of their income; receive a monthly benefit towards their utility bill and, arrearage reductions for every on-time payment they make, if applicable.

Beginning October 1, 2017	Seniors, People with Disabilities
Beginning November 1, 2017	Households with children under the age of 6 years and disconnected households
Beginning December 1, 2017	All other eligible households

Locations:

Contact your local Community Action Agency to make an appointment to apply for LIHEAP.  You can use the "Where to Apply" link to the right to locate the appropriate Community Action Agency for your county.  You may call 1-877-411-9276.

CLICK HERE to find a Community Action Agency (CAA) serving your area

Income Eligibility:

If your household’s combined income for the 30 days prior to application (gross income, before taxes are deducted) is at or below 150% of the federal poverty level as shown in the chart below, you may be eligible to receive assistance. If you rent, and your heat and/or electric is included in the rent, your rent must be greater than 30% of your income in order to be eligible to receive assistance.

Family Size	30 Day Income	Annual Income
1	$1,508	$18,090
2	$2,030	$24,360
3	$2,553	$30,630
4	$3,075	$36,900
5	$3,598	$43,170
6	$4,120	$49,440
7	$4,643	$55,710
8	$5,165	$61,980

Bring all appropriate documentation:

Do not forget to bring all required documentation when you apply, including:

• Proof of gross income from all household members for the 30-day period beginning with the date of application.
• A copy of current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days (if energy directly paid for).
• A copy of rental agreement (if renting) showing that utilities are included, the monthly rental amount and landlord contact information.
• Proof of Social Security numbers for all household members.
• Proof the household received TANF or other benefits, such as Medical Eligibility or SNAP, if receiving assistance from the Illinois Department of Human Services.

For more information on the State of Illinois Energy Assistance program: CLICK HERE

Programs are available in all states, program and requirements do vary state to state, check with your state's human services agency for information.