Signup begins Monday for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
Seniors, the disabled and families with children under the age of six in Bond, Clinton, Marion, and Washington County can begin calling the main office of BCMW Community Services at (618) 532-7388 for outreach locations and schedules and for information on what documents are needed to apply and different ways to submit your application.
On Wednesday, November 1st, households that are disconnected from their utilities, have a disconnection notice or have less than 25-percent in their propane tank can start applying for assistance.
All other income eligible households can start applying December 1st.
Applications can be made this year until August 15th of next year as long as funds have not been exhausted.
Households must be at or below 200-percent 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 as follows:
- Family of one: $2,430
- Family of two: $3,287
- Family of three: $4,143
- Family of four: $5,000
You may get income limits for households with five or more members by going to bcmwcommunityservices.org.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides one-time benefits to income eligible homeowners and renters to help with energy bills and for reconnections of energy service. Propane customers who are part of the priority group are encouraged to apply when the program opens in October. BCMW officials not propane prices typically increase during the winter months so by applying early propane customers will see their LIHEAP benefit go further.
To apply, you must submit all documentation required:
1) Proof of gross income from all household members for the prior 30-day period beginning with the date of application.
2) Proof of Social Security numbers or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number for all household members. Individuals without a SSN or ITIN can still apply and BCMW Community Services will advise accordingly.
3) A copy of current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days.
4) A copy of rental agreement (if renting) showing that utilities are included, the monthly rental amount and landlord contact.
5) Other documents may be needed based on your household situation. If you have questions regarding this, please call the BCMW office.
Applications will be taken at the BCMW offices in Bond, Clinton, Marion, and Washington Counties. Applications will be completed over the phone for people who are homebound or unable to travel to one of the offices.
