Help for Those Struggling to Pay Heating Bills

With winter approaching, it’s important that everyone is prepared for the cold weather that comes along with the season. No family should have to choose between paying for heat and paying for other necessities, and that is why we are here to provide information regarding Illinois’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, abbreviated in this post as LIHEAP.

LIHEAP is a program for low-income families in which heating bill payments are made on behalf of households. The full income guidelines from the State of Illinois can be found here.

To apply, applicants should make an appointment by calling ahead to 847-297-2510. The appointment can be held at the Maine Township Building at 1700 Ballard Road in Park Ridge or over the phone.

To qualify, applicants must bring the following information:

• Proof of past 30-day income through paystub, check or copy of check showing fixed income amount (e.g. SSA, VA, DHS benefits), or other proof of documentation for any income source,
• Copy of most recent bill for heating (usually gas, propane or electric) and/or electric bill issued within the last 30 days (if energy directly paid for).
• Social security card or ITIN for residents who have them. Residents without ITIN or SSN can still apply and your Local Administering Agency will advise accordingly.
• A copy of rental agreement (if renting) showing that heating utility(ies) is/are included, the monthly rental amount, and landlord contact information.
• Proof the household received TANF or other benefits, such as Medical Eligibility or SNAP, if receiving assistance from the Illinois Department of Human Services.

Applications are handled on a first-come, first-served basis until funding is exhausted, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

To learn more about LIHEAP and utility bill assistance visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity website.

Have a safe - and warm - winter.