LIHEAP Assistance for Energy Bills in Illinois
ROCKFORD, Ill. – Starting October 1, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will be available to income-qualifying households in Illinois to help with their electric or natural gas bills.
Program Priorities include:
- Older adults (60+ years)
- People with disabilities
- Families with children aged 5 or younger
- Households facing disconnection or with low propane levels
All other eligible households can apply beginning November 1, 2026. The program prioritizes those most in need, with the first group expected to represent over half of applicants.
Eligibility Requirements:
To qualify for assistance, families must provide documentation and meet income thresholds. Details can be found in a chart available on the state’s website.
| Family Size | 30-Day Gross Income | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $3,990 | $47,880 |
| 2 | $5,410 | $64,920 |
| 3 | $6,830 | $81,960 |
| 4 | $8,250 | $99,000 |
| 5 | $9,670 | $116,040 |
| 6 | $11,090 | $133,080 |
| 7 | $12,510 | $150,120 |
| 8 | $13,930 | $167,160 |
How to Apply
Families can apply through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) website or at local community agencies. Applications can be submitted from October 1, 2026 through August 13, 2027, or until funds run out.
Local Agencies by County:
- Winnebago and Boone Counties: Apply through the Rockford Human Services Department. Find more information on the city’s website.
- Stephenson and Jo Daviess Counties: Contact the Northwestern Illinois Community Action Agency (NICAA). They will start accepting applications on October 5, 2026, for priority households. Schedule appointments online; applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside Counties: The Tri-County Opportunities Community Action Agency serves these areas. For more details, visit their site.
For more information and updates, residents are encouraged to check their local agency websites.
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