Winter heating assistance available through LIHEAP

HomeHeatingBill 2_r1The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is ­taking applications for winter ­heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Clients must bring all required documentation when applying for assistance, including:

• Proof of gross income from all household members for the 30-day income period ­beginning with the date of the application.

• A copy of their current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days (if they pay for their energy directly).

• A copy of their rental ­agreement (if they are ­renting) showing that ­utilities are included, the monthly rental amount and landlord contact information.

• Proof of Social Security ­numbers for all household members.

• Proof that their household received TANF or other ­benefits, such as Medical Eligibility or SNAP, if ­receiving assistance from the Illinois Department of Human Services.

For a complete listing of LIHEAP’s local administering agencies and additional information about the program, go to www.liheapIllinois.com, or call the energy assistance toll-free hotline at 1-877-411-WARM.