September 26, 2019 – Qualifying utility customers in Madison County, Illinois will be able to submit their applications for energy assistance starting on October 1. Applicants can apply through the Madison County Community Development Energy Assistance Office (CDEAO). The CDEAO offers assistance with the application process, and provides a list of outreach sites in the area.
Applicants who are senior citizens, have a household member who is disabled, or those who have been disconnected from their utility service will be able to apply starting October 1. Households who have either a child under 5 years-of-age in the household or have been disconnected from their utilities may apply starting November 1. All other applicants can apply between December 1 and May 31, 2020.
There are two programs available, the Illinois Home Energy Assistance Program (IHEAP), and the Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP). IHEAP is a one-time payment directly to the customer’s energy bill. PIPP is offered to solely Ameren customers and pays a monthly benefit towards their bill. The PIPP payment is determined by household income and type of fuel. Both assistance programs operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, until funds are depleted, or both.
To learn more about energy assistance in your area, visit the LIHEAP Clearinghouse State Snapshots web site.
