As the winter chill sets in, ensuring access to heating services is crucial for comfort and well-being. If you’re an Illinois resident facing the risk of losing your heating services, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is here to provide assistance, and we come with all the information you need to apply.
LIHEAP is a federally funded program designed to help eligible low-income households with their energy bills, including assistance with heating costs during the cold winter months. This program aims to ensure that families and individuals in need can afford the energy necessary to stay warm and safe in their homes, and it works very good in Park Forest, Illinois.
Applying for LIHEAP in Illinois Made Simple
Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. LIHEAP primarily assists households with income levels at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. Prepare necessary documents such as proof of income, recent energy bills, and identification. The specific documentation required may vary, so it’s essential to check with your local LIHEAP office for the exact requirements.
2023 Federal Poverty Guidelines for 200% of Poverty for 2024 Program Year
| Household Size | 30-Day Income | Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,430 | $29,160 |
| 2 | $3,287 | $39,440 |
| 3 | $4,143 | $49,720 |
| 4 | $5,000 | $60,000 |
| 5 | $5,857 | $70,280 |
| 6 | $6,713 | $80,560 |
| 7 | $7,570 | $90,840 |
| 8 | $7,775 | $93,298 |
The LIHEAP application period is October 2, 2023 to August 15, 2024, or until funding is exhausted. As you could imply, the program works in a first come, first served basis, so you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Even though the program started to receive applications from October 1, 2023, by that date only households with elder or disabled members were able to apply. Now, by December 1, all the rest of the qualifying households could drop their application form.
Documentation to Prove Eligibility for LIHEAP in Illinois
Which documents are required to establish eligibility? Prepare the following documentation for each member of your household to facilitate the verification process with your local agency:
- Proof of 30-Day Income: Provide evidence of income for the past 30 days, which can include pay stubs, checks, or a copy of a check indicating a fixed income amount (e.g., Social Security, Veterans Affairs, Department of Human Services benefits). Alternatively, any other documentation validating income sources is acceptable.
- Recent Heating and/or Electric Bill: Furnish a copy of the most recent heating bill (commonly for gas, propane, or electric) and/or an electric bill issued within the last 30 days if the energy is directly paid for by the household.
- Identification for Residents: Submit the Social Security card or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for residents who possess them. However, residents lacking an ITIN or Social Security Number (SSN) can still apply, and the Local Administering Agency will provide guidance accordingly.
- Rental Agreement (if applicable): If you are renting, provide a copy of the rental agreement that demonstrates the inclusion of heating utilities, specifies the monthly rental amount, and includes contact information for the landlord.
- Proof of Other Benefits: If applicable, present proof that the household is receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or other benefits such as Medical Eligibility or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) from the Illinois Department of Human Services.