The program 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 reductions for every on-time payment they make, if applicable.
For more information and to determine eligibility visit: www.liheapillinois.com
For questions, email communityassist@illinois.gov or call the Help Illinois Families Call Center at 1-833-711-0374.