CHICAGO –The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has released information about this year’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
LIHEAP will begin accepting applications on October 2, 2023, through August 15, 2024, or until funds are exhausted.
“Every Illinoisan, regardless of income, deserves to be able to keep the lights on and stay warm—especially as we near wintertime,” said Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) in a statement.
The energy bill assistance program offered through the Help Illinois Families Program in program year 2023 will provide $237 million to eligible families to assist with natural gas, propane, and electricity bills.
Program Year 2023 includes a variety of improvements based on feedback from advocates such as the expanded program year, as well as re-instating the pre-pandemic practice of tiered applications to allow families most in need to apply first.
“LIHEAP is an important resource for Illinois families and the program improvements will help prioritize families who need the most assistance,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Through a program year extension and tiered application periods, the State of Illinois is providing the resources necessary for reliable access to energy utilities.”
Beginning Oct. 2, eligible families can apply by visiting helpillinoisfamilies.com or by visiting their local agency (a list of partners throughout the state can be found here). Families can also call (833) 711-0374 for assistance in 30 languages.
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