DuPage County LIHEAP Deadline Extended

Energy Bill

CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Some DuPage County residents are getting more time to pay their energy bills.

The DuPage County Community Services Department has extended the deadline for applications for the annual Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) until June 30 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

DuPage officials said help is available for residents whose last 30 days of income have been impacted by the pandemic or anyone struggling to pay utility bills. Households that applied as of or after October 1, 2019, have not received Reconnection Assistance, and have a high outstanding balance may apply to receive further assistance.

Reconnection Assistance is available for households who are disconnected from their energy source or are under imminent threat of disconnection. Benefits are paid directly to the utilities on behalf of eligible households.

Assistance is available for a household with a 30-day combined gross income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level. A single-person household can qualify for the program with a monthly gross income of up to $1,561; a two-person household could earn up to $2,114; and a family of four can earn up to $3,219.

In-person appointments are not being held at this time; but applications are being taken via phone and email. Customers must be able to provide the required documentation when applying for assistance:
  • Social Security Cards for all household members
  • Proof of gross income from all household members for the 30-day period beginning with the date of application
  • Current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days (if they pay for the energy directly)
  • If you rent, a copy of your lease showing that utilities are included, the monthly rental amount and landlord contact information

For more application information, including how to apply, or to schedule a phone appointment, DuPage County residents may call (630) 407-6500, (800) 942-9412 (toll-free) or visit www.dupageco.org. Applications are taken based on a first-come, first-serve basis until funding is exhausted.