C.E.F.S. Economic Opportunity Corporation
1805 South Banker Street
Effingham IL 62401
217.342.2193
LIHEAP Request for Service Information
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is available for income-qualified households beginning October 2, 2023.
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The LIHEAP Request for Service must be completed in-person or over the phone with one of the C.E.F.S. Outreach Offices.
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides one-time benefits to income-eligible homeowners and renters to help with energy bills and for reconnection of energy services. 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.
Important Dates
September 18, 2023
Appointments can be made with the outreach office starting on this date.
October 2023
October is a priority period for the elderly, disabled, or households with children under age 6.
October 2, 2023
The program officially opens.
November 2023
On Wednesday, November 1st, households that are disconnected from their utilities, are within 7 days of disconnect, or have less than 25% in their propane tank can start applying for assistance.
December 2023
All other income-eligible households can start applying on December 1, 2023.
Income Guidelines
2024 LIHEAP Income Guidelines (Effective 7/1/2023)
2024 Warm Neighbors/Cool Friends Income Guidelines (Effective 8/1/2023)
The Ameren Warm Neighbors/Cool Friends Program may also provide assistance to Ameren customers only.
Application Documentation
The following documentation is required for all applications:
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Proof of gross income from all household members for the prior 30-day period beginning with the date of application.
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Proof of Social Security numbers or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for all household members. Individuals without a SSN or ITIN can still apply and C.E.F.S. will advise accordingly.
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A copy of current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days.
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A copy of the rental agreement (if renting) showing that utilities are included, the monthly rental amount, and landlord contact.
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Other documents may be needed based on your household situation. If you have questions regarding this, please call our office.
Additional Information
The application end date will now be August 15, 2024.
Applications will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis through August 15, 2024, or until funding is exhausted. Households that receive a one-time benefit may return during this period for a Reconnection Assistance or Furnace Assistance benefit(s).
Due to funding, new Percentage of Income Payment (PIPP) applications will not be taken for PY 2024.
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