Energy bill assistance opens Oct. 2

State Senator Doris Turner is encouraging all eligible people to apply to this year's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program to help with utility costs. Applications will be accepted starting Oct. 2 through Aug. 15, 2024.

"Energy Bill assistance is vital as utility costs continue to rise," said Turner. "No one should have to decide if they can heat their homes in the winter or put food on the table." Energy bill assistance 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. Last year's LIHEAP funding, which was available from Sept. 2022 through May 2023, provided assistance to a record number of 311,214 households.

Beginning Oct. 2, eligible families can apply to this year's program by visiting HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or by visiting their local agency (a list of partners throughout the state can be found). Families can also call 1-833-711-0374 for assistance in 30 languages.

All families who meet the qualifications and provide proper documentation will receive support until funding is exhausted. Families who earn up to two times the federal poverty level are eligible to receive support through LIHEAP.