In response to COVID-19, and the funding through the CARES ACT, the State of Illinois will extend the duration of the utility assistance program from an eight to an eleven month program this year. All income eligible households may begin to apply July 27. There will be no priority group. Households in need of energy assistance, especially those with disconnection notices, high past due balances and the general population that have been most likely affected by wage fluctuations due to COVID-19 are encouraged to apply. Households with persons 60 or over, with someone who is currently receiving disability and families with children age 5 or under can also apply at this time.
Energy assistance applications will be taken on a first-come, first-serve basis through June 30, 2021 or until funding is depleted.
Applications for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) program will also be taken for eligible Ameren Illinois customers based on county funding availability. PIPP is based on 150 percent of the federal poverty level and the number of persons living in the household. A one person household limit is $1,595 with the addition of $560 for each household member.
In addition, propane customers are strongly encouraged to apply in the month of August when prices are their lowest.
For more, please see this week’s print edition.