LIHEAP

En Español

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, helps eligible low-income households pay for energy services. Qualifying households receive monetary relief once per year to be used for energy bills. Eligibility is based on several factors including household size, location and income.

Check our Income Guidelines listed below.

2011 LIHEAP Income Guidelines
To qualify for LIHEAP, your household's combined income for the 30 days prior to application is at or below the levels shown below. If you rent, and your heat and/or electric is included in the rent, then your rent must be greater than 30% of your income in order to be eligible to receive benefits.

For each additional household member add $477.50 per month.

These figures are based on the federal poverty guidelines.

How to Apply
Step 1: Application
Contact your nearest LIHEAP intake agency:

• LIHEAP agencies: offices and phone numbers
• Call 1-877-411-9276 (WARM).
• TDD for the hearing impaired: 1-800-785-6055
• Seniors may contact the Illinois Department on Aging "Senior Hotline" at 1-800-252-8966 (voice and TDD) for a referral to their local LIHEAP agency.

Step 2: Notification
You will be notified of your eligibility status by the agency within 30 days. If eligible, you will be informed of the amount of assistance you can receive. The agency will notify your energy provider(s) of your participation in the program.

Step 3: Payment
The agency will make payments to the energy provider(s) on your behalf.