Energy Bill Relief

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LIHEAP applications are processed through a network of 35 local administering agencies around the state and all applications will be accepted on a first-come first-served basis.
LIHEAP applications are processed through a network of 35 local administering agencies around the state and all applications will be accepted on a first-come first-served basis.

Thanks to a federally funded program, Illinois homeowners and renters living on a fixed or low income can receive help paying their monthly energy bills through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

The LIHEAP program was established in 2009 and is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the State of Illinois. Overseen by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the LIHEAP program was created to reduce the number of residents forced to make decisions about which bills to pay and which necessities to live without.

Beginning on Nov. 1 Illinois residents seeking assistance can submit their applications to enroll in LIHEAP.

Those interested in enrolling in the LIHEAP program must have the following documentation:

Proof of gross income from all household members for the 30-day period prior to the application date.

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 that household received TANF or other benefits, such as Medical Eligibility or SNAP, if receiving assistance from the Illinois Department of Human Services.

Applicants have the option of choosing between Direct Vendor Payment (DVP), a one-time payment towards their energy bills, or the Percentage of Income Plan (PIPP) where customers of Ameren Illinois, ComEd, Nicor Gas and Peoples Gas/North Shore Gas can will pay a percentage of their income, receive a monthly benefit towards their utility bill, and lower their overdue bills for every on-time payment they make by the bill due date.

LIHEAP applications are processed through a network of 35 local administering agencies around the state and all applications will be accepted on a first-come first-served basis. For a complete listing of LIHEAPs local administering agencies and additional information about the program, go to Liheapillinois.com, or call the toll-free hotline at 1877-411-WARM.

By: Abbra Stiffend

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