DuPage County is now accepting applications for energy assistance via annual Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Wheaton – DuPage County Community Services is accepting applications for the annual Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which can be used to assist income-eligible households with their natural gas, propane, and electric bills.
Emergency furnace assistance is also available.
Applications will be taken on a first-come, first-serve basis for income-eligible households through May 31, 2022. There will be no priority groups for this program year. Households in need are encouraged to apply.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
The LIHEAP provides one-time benefits to income eligible homeowners and renters to help with energy bills and for reconnection of energy service. Propane customers are encouraged to apply to take advantage of lower propane prices, which typically increase during the winter months.
Households must be at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level to receive a benefit from the LIHEAP Program. Households have the option to accept a one-time payment to the utility provider or enroll in Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP), a monthly benefit for applicants who make a predetermined monthly payment.
PIPP is available for LIHEAP-eligible households who are customers of one of the following utilities: Ameren Illinois, ComEd, Nicor Gas, North Shores Gas, and Peoples Gas. PIPP applicants will be enrolled on a first-come, first-serve basis, and the program will be offered until March 31, 2022, or when the program has reached the maximum household capacity.
The 30-day income guidelines for LIHEAP and PIPP are based on federal poverty guidelines, state median income, and the number of persons living in the household. A single-person household can qualify for the PIPP Program with a monthly gross income of up to $2,147; a two-person household up to $2,903; a three-person household up to $3,660; and a family of four can earn up to $4,417. To find income limits for households with five or more people, visit www.dupageco.org/LIHEAP.
To apply, residents must submit all documentation required:
- Proof of gross income from all household members for the prior 30-day period beginning with the date of application.
- Proof of Social Security numbers or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for all household members. Individuals without an SSN or ITIN can still apply, and DuPage County Community Services will advise accordingly.
- A copy of current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days.
- A copy of rental agreement (if renting) showing that utilities are included, the monthly rental amount and landlord contact.
- Other documents may be needed based on household situation.
For more information, including where to apply or to schedule an appointment, call (630) 407-6500 or (800) 942-9412 (toll-free), or visit www.dupageco.org/LIHEAP.
News release submitted by Evan Shields, Public Information Officer, DuPage County Board.
