A program that supports energy expenses for low-income households is launching soon for 2026, with expanded eligibility and funding available from the DuPage County Community Services Department.
The program, known as LIHEAP — or the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program — aims to help qualifying households with one-time benefits to pay their bills for electricity, natural gas and/or propane, and to pay for utility reconnection or furnace repair, the county said in a news release.
When to apply for energy assistance
The county is accepting calls at 630-407-6500 or 800-942-9412 starting Sept. 17 to schedule appointments for when the LIHEAP application period begins. Oct. 1 is the start date for applications for adults 60 and older, people with disabilities, families with children ages 5 and younger, and households experiencing utility disconnections. All others can apply based on income starting Nov. 1.
LIHEAP program guidelines require recipients who are customers of ComEd, Ameren Illinois, Nicor Gas, North Shore Gas and Peoples Gas to have income at or below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines, under eligibility standards that were expanded this year…