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Utility Bill Assistance
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 200% of the federal nonfarm poverty level. Additionally, you will also qualify for assistance with your water and wastewater bills if your household is disconnected, in threat of disconnection or if you are more than $50 in arrears on your current bill. You will apply for Low Income Household Water Assistance (LIHWAP) at the same time you complete your current LIHEAP application.
Expanded energy assistance programming builds on the administration’s $275 million Help Illinois Families initiative, created in 2020 to help reach an unprecedented number of families in crisis and needing financial assistance for utility bills and other household expenses due to the pandemic. For more, visit helpillinoisfamilies.com.
New as of July 1, a water and sewer rate reduction benefit is now available if you are not in arrears on your water or sewer bills. You can also apply for a benefit even if you received one prior to July 1. LIHWAP assistance is available year round.
See How to Apply for more information.
For a complete list of LIHEAP application agencies based on county, see Where to Apply. For additional program information check out the Frequently Asked Questions. Or call Help Illinois Families call center at 1-833-711-0374.
Check the status of your LIHEAP application.
Due to the recent energy price increases and the availability of funds, the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) is not accepting new applications starting September 1, 2022 through May 31, 2023. Recertification for currently enrolled PIPP customers will continue during this time. Energy Assistance customers can still apply for the traditional one-time LIHEAP assistance.
HOME ENERGY RESOURCES
Watch a video from Citizens Utility Board on how to save energy in your home.
For more videos about your utility bill and saving money and energy visit:
For more information contact:
Office of Community Assistance
Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
1-833-711-0374