LIHEAP & PIPP Programs

Powering your home can take a toll on your budget. Federal- and state-funded programs are available to help you manage your energy bills.

LIHEAP

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally administered program that can help you stay warm in winter without upsetting your budget. Whether you rent or own your home, LIHEAP offers financial help to limited-income households to pay heat and electric bills.

PIPP

The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) is a choice within Illinois LIHEAP to help manage energy bills year-round. You will be placed on a Budget Billing plan that is subsidized by a monthly PIPP benefit amount, determined by a percentage of your household income. Each month, you receive a PIPP benefit towards a portion of your Budget Bill amount. If an on-time and in-full payment is received, you may also receive a monthly arrearage credit, if applicable.

You are enrolled in Budget Billing.
Budget Billing is a predictable monthly payment based on your electricity usage from the last 12 months. The cost is spread evenly month-to-month by charging a pre-arranged amount with each bill. PIPP participants will know exactly what to pay so you can keep your budget in check.
You receive a monthly benefit from the state towards your utility bill.
You are required to make on-time monthly bill payments equal to approximately 6% of your income or a minimum of $10.
For each on-time payment, you will receive a credit towards the eligible account balance prior to enrolling in PIPP, up to $1000 per year for each utility

You can get a single LIHEAP benefit based on your income and household size, as well as reconnection assistance if eligible for disconnection, once per program year (September 2021-May 2022) or until funds are exhausted.

Or you can get a recurring monthly PIPP benefit based on your income and household size. Household income must be re-certified at least once per year to remain in the program. As of September 21, 2021, new PIPP applications are being accepted based on the funds each county has available. Applications are available on a first-come, first-served basis through March 31, 2022, or until funds are exhausted.

You may not receive both LIHEAP and PIPP in the same program year. For both programs, if you are new or re-enrolling, you must ensure your 30-day household gross income meets the income guidelines.

Family Size (total number in household)	30-Day Gross Income Total to Meet Eligibility
1	$2,147
2	$2,903
3	$3,660
4	$4,417
5	$5,173
6	$5,930

* For households larger than 6 members, please contact your local Community Action Agency.

1. Gather the required documentation

Documents will be submitted to and reviewed by local Community Action Agencies.

Proof of gross income from all household members for the 30-day period prior to the date of application.
Copies of current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days (if energy directly paid for).
Copy of rental agreement (if renting) showing that utilities are included, the monthly rental amount and landlord contact information.
Proof of Social Security Numbers for all household members. Undocumented customers may apply without a government-issued SSN.
Proof the household received TANF or other benefits, such as Medical Eligibility or SNAP, if receiving assistance from the Illinois Department of Human Services.

2. Contact your Community Action Agency

Contact your local Community Action Agency to make an appointment to apply. Community Action Agencies are local private and public nonprofit organizations that offer a range of services, including utility bill assistance, to support limited-income individuals and families. Your Community Action Agency will determine which program provides the best benefit.

Find your local Community Action Agency
You may also call 877-411-9276

How long does it take?
Average response time from the LAA is within 3 business days of completing and submitting your application.

How do I check the status of my application?
You can check the status of your application by visiting the Customer Inquiry website.

Check my status

How do I receive assistance?
Once your assistance details have been determined, you’ll see a line item on your billing statement indicating the credit type and amount.