The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity says $240 million is available for natural-gas, propane, electricity, and eligible furnace assistance. Applications remain open through August 13, 2027, or until funding is exhausted.
The first application group includes adults age 60 and older, people with disabilities, families with children age five or younger, and households that are disconnected, have received a disconnection notice, or have less than 25 percent remaining in a propane tank. All other households that meet the income requirements may begin applying November 1.
Households may apply through the state’s Help Illinois Families program or a local administering agency. Assistance is generally issued as a one-time payment directly to the utility provider, and the state says households must supply the required eligibility documentation before receiving support.