Wisconsin and Illinois are among the states opening their FY 2010 LIHEAP programs with early application periods.
Wisconsin began its FY 2010 LIHEAP program by opening an early application period for targeted households on August 31.
State legislation passed in the spring of 2009 changed the income guidelines for Wisconsin’s LIHEAP making more households eligible for energy assistance. Income eligibility will now be based on 60 percent of the state median income, compared to 150 percent of federal poverty guidelines last year. Under the new guidelines a one-person household can earn up to $23,435 yearly; a family of four up to $45,067. Regular enrollment for the 2010 program begins October 1
Illinois scheduled September 1 to start taking applications for its LIHEAP. September and October are set aside as a priority period for the income-eligible elderly age 60 and over and the disabled who are drawing disability income. On November 2, all other households meeting the income guidelines will be eligible to apply on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ohio began taking application for the 2010 heating season on August 1.
Source: newspapers and state plans
