Energy assistance program available soon in Illinois QC

Project NOW, the administrator of the Energy Assistance Program in Henry, Mercer and Rock Island counties, has announced that funds are available to assist income-eligible households with their natural gas, propane and/or electric bills and furnace assistance for inoperable heating systems. 

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will begin taking applications Monday, Oct. 2, for seniors, the disabled and families with children under age 6. On Wednesday, Nov. 1, households that are disconnected from their utilities, have a disconnection notice, or have less than 25% in their propane tank can begin applying for assistance. 

Applications for all other income eligible households open Friday, Dec. 1.

Applications will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis through Aug. 15, 2024. Households that receive a one-time benefit may return during this period for a Reconnection Assistance or Furnace Assistance benefit(s).

Households must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level to receive a benefit from LIHEAP. The 30-day income guidelines for LIHEAP are based on Federal Poverty Guidelines, State Median Income and the number of persons living in the household. The income guidelines are:

• Family of one can have a monthly income up to $2,430 to qualify.
• Family of two, $3,287 maximum monthly income.
• Family of three, $4,143 maximum monthly income.
• Family of four, $5,000 maximum monthly income.

Go to projectnow.org or liheapillinois.com to learn income limits for households with five members and more.

LIHEAP provides one-time benefits to income eligible homeowners and renters to help with energy bills and for reconnection of energy service.

Propane customers who are part of the priority group are encouraged to apply when the program opens in October. Propane prices typically increase during the winter months so by applying early propane customers will see their LIHEAP benefit go further.

Applications will be taken at the Project NOW office at 418 19th St., Rock Island. It can be reached at (309) 793-6391.

Applicants must submit all documentation required, which includes:

• Proof of gross income from all household members for the prior 30-day period beginning with the date of application.
• Proof of Social Security numbers or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number for all household members. Individuals without an SSN or ITIN can still apply and Project NOW will advise accordingly.
• A copy of current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days.
• A copy of rental agreement (if renting) showing that utilities are included, the monthly rental amount and landlord contact.
• Other documents may be needed based on your household situation. If you have questions regarding this, please call the office.

Email questions@projectnow.org for outreach locations and schedules, and for information on what documents are needed to apply and different ways to submit your application.