As winter approaches and heating bills are expected to rise, millions of Americans could receive checks to help cover energy costs — but they must apply as soon as possible to benefit from the program.
According to The Economic Times, Illinois has launched a new campaign under the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), offering eligible households up to $686 in financial aid to ease the burden of high energy bills.
Established in 1981 in response to the 1970s energy crisis, LIHEAP remains a vital lifeline for millions of Americans during the coldest months of the year. In Illinois, applications opened on October 1, 2025, for priority groups including:
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Seniors aged 60 and above
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People with disabilities
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Families with children aged five or younger
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Households facing fuel shortages or disconnection risks
Energy Aid Applications Open Soon for Illinois Families
All other income-qualified families can begin applying on November 1, 2025. The application window runs until August 15, 2026, or until the $240 million in allocated funding is exhausted, according to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).
Payments are made directly to utility providers, and the amount of assistance depends on household size, income level, and heating costs. Between 2024 and 2025, more than 341,000 Illinois families benefited from LIHEAP, receiving an average of $686 in support.
To apply, households can visit HelpIllinoisFamilies.com, contact local agencies, or call 1-833-711-0374 for multilingual assistance.
According to The Mirror US, households with total income below 60% of the state median income during the 30 days before applying may qualify for aid. Renters whose heating costs are included in their rent may also be eligible.
Amid rising energy prices and a challenging winter ahead, this program offers crucial relief for vulnerable families — a tangible step toward energy justice and economic stability in the United States.