Governor Pritzker Urges Income-Eligible Families to Seek Utility Bill Assistance Through LIHEAP

Illinois Expansion of LIHEAP Applications to All Income-Eligible Households

CHICAGO – Starting November 1, 2023, all income-eligible households in Illinois have the opportunity to apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This program, designed to help families manage the costs of their utility bills, including natural gas, propane, and electricity, is crucial as winter approaches and temperatures begin to plummet. Applications will be accepted until August 15, 2025, or until the allocated funding runs out.

Governor JB Pritzker emphasized his administration’s commitment to keeping families warm this winter, stating, “With temperatures dropping and the winter season just weeks away, my administration is committed to keeping every family warm and safe.” The state looks to provide financial support through a substantial allocation of 6 million from the Help Illinois Families Program, aimed at assisting thousands of qualified households with their energy expenses. Governor Pritzker strongly encourages all eligible families to apply, ensuring they receive the assistance needed during the colder months.

Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton echoed the Governor’s sentiments, affirming that “Every family deserves a safe, secure and warm home, regardless of income.” As winter approaches, the LIHEAP program serves as a crucial resource for easing the financial burden of energy costs, significantly enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable residents in Illinois.

The energy assistance offered through the Help Illinois Families initiative not only covers utility bills but also provides furnace assistance for those in need. DCEO Director Kristin Richards highlighted the importance of LIHEAP, stating, “LIHEAP is critical to helping families across Illinois receive the assistance they need to ensure reliable access to energy utilities.” The DCEO is committed to ensuring that families are informed about the resources available to them, further emphasizing the transformative impact this program can have on household budgets during the harsh winter months.

Starting today, eligible families can fill out their applications online at PLACEHOLDER7653bc038d9ed082 or visit their local agency to apply in person. A comprehensive list of community partners can be accessed PLACEHOLDERe578faa558f68297. Additionally, assistance is available through a dedicated helpline at 1-833-711-0374, which offers support in over 30 languages to ensure accessibility for all households.

LIHEAP provides one-time payments directly to energy service providers on behalf of applicants, helping them keep their homes heated throughout the winter. Based on last year’s data, more than 333,000 households benefited from the program, receiving an average payment exceeding 4 each. Moreover, new measures introduced for the current year mean that LIHEAP customers serviced by Ameren Illinois, Nicor Gas, North Shore Gas, and Peoples Gas will also see a monthly discount on their natural gas bills through the newly implemented Low Income Discount Rates. For further details, you can visit Power Bill Discount.

Eligibility for LIHEAP is open to families earning up to two times the federal poverty level. To clarify who qualifies, here’s a breakdown of income thresholds based on family size:

| Family Size (Household) | 30-Day Gross Income |
|——————————|————————-|
| 1 | ,510 |
| 2 | ,407 |
| 3 | ,303 |
| 4 | ,200 |
| 5 | ,097 |
| 6 | ,993 |

In the previous funding year, which ran from October 2022 to August 2023, LIHEAP provided essential support to 333,738 households, underscoring the program’s vital role in maintaining energy access for low-income families.

Beyond LIHEAP, the Illinois state government offers various other programs aimed at assisting low-income families with utility costs. This includes:

– One-Time Direct Vendor Payment: All LIHEAP recipients receive a one-time payment.
– Crisis/Reconnection Assistance: Fund availability for families facing heating-related emergencies.
– Furnace Assistance: Support for homeowners with non-operational furnaces, contingent on funding.
– Home Weatherization Program: Initiatives to enhance energy efficiency for low-income households, reducing overall fuel consumption and costs.

For interested families, applying is a straightforward process. To determine eligibility and access further information, visit helpillinoisfamilies.com to complete the application online. Alternatively, families can reach out to local agencies or call 1-833-711-0374 for assistance. Enhanced access to resources ensures that residents facing financial challenges can secure the support they require to keep their homes warm this winter season.

As Illinois embarks on this expanded energy assistance program, it stands as a crucial lifeline for families navigating the challenges of rising utility costs amidst the cold. With the winter months looming, this program exemplifies the state’s commitment to the well-being of its residents.