As energy prices continue to climb across the U.S., millions of Americans are finding it harder to afford their monthly utility bills. Rising demand from data centers, harsh weather conditions, aging infrastructure, and higher natural gas prices have pushed electricity costs well above inflation rates.
To help families cope, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is once again stepping in to provide relief. Originally created in 1981, LIHEAP helps qualifying households cover essential heating, cooling, and energy costs — ensuring that no one has to choose between paying for electricity and buying food or medicine.
Illinois LIHEAP Applications Open in October 2025
In Illinois, the state’s Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) began accepting new LIHEAP applications on October 1, 2025, for the following groups:
- Seniors aged 60 or older
- People with disabilities
- Households with children age 5 or younger
- Families facing utility disconnection or low propane supply
Starting November 1, 2025, all other income-eligible households in Illinois will be able to apply. Applications will remain open through August 15, 2026, or until funding is exhausted.
Each year, LIHEAP helps more than 340,000 Illinois households pay their heating and cooling bills, according to DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “LIHEAP continues to provide critical help to the Illinoisans who need it most,” Richards said in an October statement.
How to Apply for LIHEAP in Illinois
Eligible families can apply for LIHEAP assistance in one of three ways:
- Online — Visit the official DCEO website: www.dceo.illinois.gov
- In person — Visit your local LIHEAP agency for help completing an application.
- By phone — Call 1-833-711-0374 for multilingual assistance and guidance.
Once approved, payments are sent directly to your utility company to cover energy costs.
Average Payment Amount and Utility Discounts
Between 2024 and 2025, Illinois distributed 341,303 LIHEAP payments, with the average benefit totaling $686 per household.
Households served by Ameren, Nicor, North Shore Gas, or Peoples Gas that qualify for LIHEAP will also receive automatic monthly discounts under the Low-Income Discount Rate program — further lowering their heating bills throughout the winter.
LIHEAP Income Eligibility Guidelines (Illinois 2025–2026)
Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on household income within the last 30 days before applying. To qualify, total income must be at or below 60% of the state median income.
| Household Size | 30-Day Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $3,332 | $39,979 |
| 2 People | $4,357 | $52,281 |
| 3 People | $5,382 | $64,582 |
| 4 People | $6,407 | $76,884 |
Example: A three-person household making $5,382 or less over the past 30 days (equivalent to $64,582 annually) would qualify for energy assistance.
Renters May Also Qualify
Even renters can receive LIHEAP assistance — if their rent includes heating costs. To be eligible, they must show that their monthly rent exceeds 30% of their household income for the previous 30 days.
Why LIHEAP Matters
With energy bills continuing to rise, programs like LIHEAP are essential to help vulnerable families avoid shutoffs and maintain safe living conditions. The funds can cover:
- Heating and cooling costs
- Weatherization upgrades to improve efficiency
- Crisis assistance to prevent disconnection
By directly paying utility providers, LIHEAP ensures that families stay warm in winter and cool in summer — a critical safeguard for seniors, young children, and people with disabilities.
Key Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Early Application Period (Seniors, Disabled, Young Children, Crisis Cases) | October 1, 2025 |
| General Applications Open | November 1, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | August 15, 2026, or until funds run out |
FAQs:
What is LIHEAP?
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded initiative that helps low-income households pay for home energy bills, including heating, cooling, and weatherization. It’s designed to prevent energy shutoffs and ensure safe living conditions for vulnerable families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
Who is eligible for LIHEAP in Illinois?
Eligibility is based on household income, size, and energy costs. In Illinois, your household income for the 30 days before applying must be at or below 60% of the state median income. Priority is given to:
Seniors aged 60 and older
People with disabilities
Households with children under 5
Families facing disconnection or with low propane supplies
When can I apply for LIHEAP?
October 1, 2025: Applications open for seniors (60+), disabled individuals, families with kids 5 and under, and households facing a shutoff notice.
November 1, 2025: Applications open for all other income-eligible households.
Applications will remain open until August 15, 2026, or until funds are depleted.
