BCMW, as administrator of the Home Energy Assistance Program in Bond, Clinton, Marion, and Washington Counties, is pleased to announce that funds are available to assist income-eligible households with their natural gas, propane and electric bills and furnace assistance.
The program will begin September 1, 2021, for all income-eligible households. Applications will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis through May 31, 2022. There will be no priority groups this program year. We will have the Furnace Assistance Program beginning September 1, 2021, and it will end March 31, 2022 to LIHEAP eligible households. Households in need are encouraged to apply.
Households must be at or below 200%of the federal poverty level to receive a benefit from the LIHEAP Program. Beginning September 1, 2021, there will be an option to accept a one-time payment to your utility provider, or to enroll in PIPP (Percentage of Income Payment Plan) which consists of a monthly benefit you will receive as long as you make your monthly payment that will be determined at the time of intake. PIPP is available for LIHEAP eligible households who are customers of Ameren Illinois. PIPP applicants will be enrolled on a first-come first-served basis and the program will be offered until March 31, 2022, or when BCMW has reached the maximum capacity of households for the program.
The income guidelines for LIHEAP and PIPP are now based on Guidelines, State Median Income and the number of persons living in the household.
1 – $2,147.00
2 – $2,903.00
3 – $3,660.00
4 – $4,417.00
Go to bcmwcommunityservices.org to know the income limits for households with 5 members and more.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides one-time benefits to income eligible households with energy bills and for reconnection of energy service. Propane customers are encouraged to apply when the program opens in September to take greater advantage of lower propane prices. Propane prices typically increase during the winter months so applying early propane users will see their LIHEAP benefit go further.
Applications will be taken over the phone at all our offices due to COVID-19.
To submit an application, you must submit all documentation required:
- 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 (ITIN) for all household members. Individuals without a SSN or ITIN can still apply and BCMW will advise accordingly.
- Copy of current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days.
- Other documents may be needed based on your household situation. If you have questions regarding this, please call our office.
- A copy of rental agreement (if renting) showing that utilities are included, the monthly rental amount and landlord contract.
Please contact the office of the county in which you reside to schedule an appointment.
Bond County – 618-664-3309
Clinton County – 618-526-7123
Marion County – 618-532-7388 ext. 117 or 133
Washington County – 618-327-8476
