Illinois LIHEAP
Illinois’ Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is designed to assist eligible households pay for their energy bills.
Depending upon funding availability, Illinois LIHEAP may offer up to three types of assistance:
Direct Vendor Payment (DVP)
Assistance is a one-time payment to the utility company on behalf of the applicant. This includes gas, electricity, liquid propane, and oil.
Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP)
Under PIPP, households have the option to pay a portion of their income and receive a monthly benefit towards their utility bill in lieu of the traditional plan of one-time benefit.
Crisis Assistance
Crisis Assistance offers Reconnection Assistance within 48 hours, or 18 hours in the event of a life-threatening situation.
FAQ
Who is eligible for LIHEAP Illinois?
To eligible for LIHEAP, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident of Illinois
- Be a U.S. Citizen, qualified alien or permanent resident of the U.S
- Be responsible for paying your home heating bills
- Have a total income no more than 60% of the State Median Income (SMI)
What is the income limit for LIHEAP in Illinois?
Households with incomes lower than 60% of the State Median Income (SMI) are eligible for LIHEAP. For a family of three, the current income limit in a 30-day period is $5,382.
| Family Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $3,332 |
| 2 | $4,357 |
| 3 | $5,382 |
| 4 | $6,407 |
| 5 | $7,432 |
| 6 | $8,457 |
| 7 | $8,649 |
| 8 | $8,842 |
What is the low income discount adjustment in Illinois?
Beginning in October 2024, natural gas utilities implemented a new set of bill discounts for low-income customers whose incomes are up to 300% of the federal poverty level.
| Family Size | Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $46,950 |
| 2 | $63,450 |
| 3 | $79,950 |
| 4 | $96,450 |
| 5 | $112,950 |
| 6 | $129,450 |
| 7 | $145,950 |
| 8 | $162,450 |
For those enrolled in the discount program, utility bills will be reduced by 5% for households in the highest eligible income bracket, and by up to 83% for those earning less than half of the federal poverty level, depending on the utility company.
How much does LIHEAP pay in Illinois?
In Illinois, eligible households may receive up to $2,075 once per program year. Payments are made directly to the utility provider on behalf of the applicant. If the bill is included in the recipient’s rent, the payment will be made directly to the recipient instead.
How do I apply for LIHEAP in Illinois?
You can apply for LIHEAP through your local Community Action Agency. Applications will be accepted until August 15, 2026, or until available funds are depleted.
Use the map provided to find the agency that serves your county. If you prefer to apply by phone, you may also contact Help Illinois Families at (833) 711-0374.
Illinois residents in Rock Island, Mercer and Henry counties should contact Project NOW, Inc. at 309-793-6391.
Does LIHEAP pay for water, sewer or phone utility service?
NOTICE: Funding is no longer available for LIHWAP. Households may not receive LIHWAP benefits at this time.
No, however you can apply for a new program, the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) on the same application as LIHEAP.