As temperatures drop, managing energy bills can become a challenge.
Luckily, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is here to support Champaign County residents.
But are you eligible? This guide will walk you through the qualifications so you can take advantage of the program and keep your home warm this winter.
Key Dates to Remember for LIHEAP
- Mark Your Calendar: Starting Tuesday, September 17, eligible residents can schedule appointments to apply for energy assistance.
- First Come, First Served: The official application period kicks off on October 1 and will run until August 15 of next year. However, applying early can improve your chances of receiving help.
- Priority Applicants: Households with seniors, people with disabilities, families with young children (under 6), or those who have been disconnected from utilities will have priority access. If this applies to you, don’t wait—your application window opens September 17.
- General Applicants: All other eligible households can begin applying on November 1.
Who Qualifies for LIHEAP?
The focus of LIHEAP is to assist low-income households struggling to pay their energy bills. Here’s what you need to know about eligibility:
Income Limits
Your household must meet specific income limits to qualify. Check if your monthly income falls within these guidelines:
- 1-person household: $2,510 per month
- 2-person household: $3,407 per month
- 3-person household: $4,303 per month
- 4-person household: $5,200 per month
If your household size is larger, you’ll need to check the full income chart to determine your eligibility.
These limits are set at 200% of the federal poverty level, so even if you think you might not qualify, it’s worth checking the numbers!
Special Circumstances
Beyond income, LIHEAP prioritizes support for specific groups:
- Seniors (60+)
- People with disabilities
- Households with children under 6
- Households facing utility disconnections
If your situation fits into one of these categories, you’ll be bumped up in the application process.
Don’t miss your chance to apply early and secure assistance before the colder months set in.
How to Apply
Step 1: Book Your Appointment
Starting September 17, you can schedule an appointment at one of the Regional Planning Commission locations in Urbana, Champaign, or Rantoul. Simply call 217-384-1226 to get started.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
To ensure a smooth application process, gather the following items before your appointment:
- Proof of your household’s gross monthly income
- Social Security or Individual Taxpayer Identification numbers for all household members
- Your most recent heating and electric bills
Having all these documents ready will help avoid delays in processing your application.
Find more information on the required documents.
Don’t Wait—Act Fast
Energy bills can be overwhelming, especially in the colder months. If you think you might qualify for LIHEAP, don’t hesitate to book your appointment and gather your documents.
With first-come, first-served processing, securing assistance sooner rather than later could make all the difference in keeping your home warm and comfortable this winter.
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