Madison County (Illinois) residents facing financial adversities due to high energy bills can now apply for assistance through the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP. The initiative, launched by Madison County Community Development, aims to provide support to eligible households struggling to meet their natural gas, propane, electric, and heating system expenses.
Starting from October 2, 2023, the program will accept applications from three specific groups, considered as a priority: seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families with children under the age of six. This early LIHEAP application period seeks to prioritize those in immediate need, ensuring they receive assistance promptly.
LIHEAP Funds Can Help You Pay Your Utility Bills on Time: Avoid Service Termination
For households facing utility disconnections, holding disconnection notices, or possessing less than 25 percent of propane in their tanks, the application window opens on November 1, 2023. This crucial step will help prevent energy shutoffs and provide relief to families grappling with heating and power-related challenges.
Beginning December 1, 2023, all other income-eligible households can submit their applications, widening the scope of support for those seeking assistance. Madison County strongly encourages all eligible households experiencing financial strain to take advantage of this program and submit their applications promptly.
The LIHEAP Program’s Schedule Have Changed – Is It Better for You?
There is an important change to the application timeline. The acceptance period will remain open until August 15, 2024, offering eligible households ample time to seek assistance. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis throughout this duration.
Moreover, households that have already received a one-time benefit can revisit the program during this timeframe to apply for Reconnection Assistance or Furnace Assistance benefits, as applicable.
How to Apply for LIHEAP in Madison County
To apply for assistance, prospective applicants are required to furnish evidence of the total gross income earned by all members of the household during the 30 days preceding the application date. Additionally, they must submit a copy of their current energy bill and provide the social security cards of all household members.
Throughout the heating season, which spans from October to August, households have the option to seek energy assistance by visiting designated intake sites or by utilizing the online application portal (available when the program is operational).
Visit the official website of Madison County Community Development, and find the offices where you can ask and deliver your application form along with all the required documents.