LIHEAP — Heating and Cooling Assistance

Guide last updated: April 17, 2026. Hazard class: housing security. Civic education by a Concerned Parent.

The short version

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income households pay heating and cooling bills. In Illinois, LIHEAP is administered through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) via Community Action Agencies. Apply each program year — applications generally open in September for the heating season and May for summer cooling assistance.

Who can get LIHEAP

Eligibility is based on household income. In Illinois, LIHEAP covers households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Approximate 2024 limits (confirm current figures when applying):

Renters and homeowners both qualify. If the utility is in your landlord's name (rent includes utilities), you may still qualify — the benefit goes to the household.

Program components

Energy Assistance (bill payment)

Direct payment to utility accounts (gas, electric, propane, oil, or other fuel). One-time annual benefit. Benefit amount depends on income, household size, fuel type, and specific program rules for the year.

Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP)

For ComEd and Peoples Gas customers (and participating utilities), PIPP caps your monthly energy bill at a percentage of your income (typically 6%). Monthly credits are applied to your account, keeping you current as long as you pay the percentage-of-income amount. You must apply and be re-certified annually.

Reconnection

If your gas or electric has been shut off, LIHEAP can help with reconnection costs and bill payment to restore service.

Furnace repair and replacement

In some program years, LIHEAP funds furnace repair or replacement for homeowners whose furnace is not working. Usually requires a specific application through an affiliated program.

Weatherization

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides home energy-efficiency improvements (insulation, air sealing, furnace tune-ups) to reduce ongoing energy costs. Applied for separately but often coordinated with LIHEAP intake.

Shutoff moratorium and priority

Illinois has utility shutoff protections. Regulated utilities cannot shut off gas or electric service during the heating season (December 1 through March 31) if you meet specific criteria:

The details vary by utility and program year. The Illinois Commerce Commission and Citizens Utility Board publish current shutoff-protection information.

How to apply

  1. Find your local Community Action Agency (CAA). Each Illinois county has a CAA that processes LIHEAP applications. Use the DCEO LIHEAP lookup tool or call 1-877-411-9276.
  2. Gather documents.
    • Proof of income for all household members (past 30 days)
    • Social Security cards (or ITINs) for household members
    • Most recent utility bill
    • Proof of residence (lease, deed, or recent mail)
    • Proof of disaster or crisis if applying for emergency services
  3. Apply at your CAA. Online where available; in-person or by mail otherwise.
  4. Wait for determination. LIHEAP decisions are usually made within 30 days. Emergency applications (imminent shutoff, no heat) are often processed within 48 hours.

Priority populations

LIHEAP applications are processed in priority order during high-demand periods:

  1. Households with disconnected utilities or imminent disconnection
  2. Households with young children, elderly members, or disabled members
  3. Households with other vulnerabilities (pregnancy, medical conditions)
  4. Other eligible households in order of application

If you are facing imminent disconnection, tell the intake worker immediately and request expedited processing.

Immigration status and LIHEAP

LIHEAP eligibility does not require immigration status verification for all household members. The U.S. citizen or qualified-immigrant requirement applies to the applicant, not to every household member. Mixed-status families are eligible. LIHEAP is also not on the public-charge list — receiving LIHEAP does not affect immigration status for the recipient or their family members. Check with the intake worker or an immigration attorney if you have specific concerns.

If you are denied

You have the right to appeal a denial. The appeal process is specific to the CAA and DCEO; ask for the written denial and the appeal procedure. Community Action Agencies are required to provide hearings for denied applicants. Legal Aid Chicago can help with appeals.

Other heating/cooling help