The Illinois Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is designed to assist eligible low income households pay for winter energy services. LIHEAP will provide a one-time benefit to eligible households to be used for energy bills. The amount of payment is determined by income, household size, fuel type, and geographic location.

LIHEAP is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the state of Illinois. The program is administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs (DCEO). Energy Assistance is provided by local community action agencies or not-for-profit agencies throughout the state. You may contact the agency provider in your area to apply for assistance.

General Program Requirements
In order to qualify for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of Illinois and you must need financial assistance for home energy costs.

In order to qualify, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:

Household Size*

Maximum Income Level (Per Year)

1 $17,505
2 $23,595
3 $29,685
4 $35,775
5 $41,865
6 $47,955
7 $54,045
8 $60,135

*For households with more than eight people, add $6,090 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.

A person who participates or has family members who participate in certain other benefit programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or certain needs-tested Veterans benefits may be automatically eligible.

Your Next Steps
The following information will lead you to the next steps to apply for this benefit.

Application Process
Contact your local Community Action Agency to make an appointment to apply for LIHEAP.

Program Contact Information

For more information on Illinois LIHEAP, please visit the Utility Bill Assistance page.

Public inquires can also be toll-free:

1-800-252-8643

Residents in central Illinois can call:

217-785-6135