Prepare now for cooler weather; heating assistance available for eligible households

NAPERVILLE, Ill. – Oct. 7, 2021 – As winter months approach, lower temperatures mean thermostats tend to go up and some household budgets might not be able to keep up with the demands of winter heating costs. Nicor Gas offers financial assistance that can help offset those costs while keeping customers warm with the safe and reliable natural gas service Illinois customers deserve and expect.

Enrollment for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is underway now. The federal- and state-funded energy assistance program helps low- and fixed-income households pay for winter energy services. 

A past-due balance or disconnection notice is not needed to apply for LIHEAP assistance. Eligibility is based on several factors, including household size and income up to 200% of the federal poverty guidelines – for a family of four that equates to $53,000 annual salary or less. For more information or to locate a local application agency, call 877-411-9276. 

LIHEAP eligible households may also participate in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan. Eligible Nicor Gas customers pay a percentage of their monthly income to maintain utility service. PIPP offers an affordable payment plan and a chance to eliminate past-due balances.

Other energy assistance programs available to Nicor Gas customers are: 

• The Nicor Gas Sharing Program, which is administered by the Salvation Army, is funded by Nicor Gas and its customers to offer bill payment assistance to eligible residential customers in need. Eligible customers can receive a Sharing Grant up to $400, based on their account balance. To apply, contact a Salvation Army office listed here or call 773-205-3520.
• Nicor Gas' Energy Aide Program provides one-time grants of up to $250 to eligible residential customers with past due balances. The grants do not need to be paid back.
• Nicor Gas Budget Plan provides a convenient way for customers to plan for and pay their monthly natural gas bill. Customers pay a consistent amount every month for a 12-month period, allowing a credit balance to build up and help offset winter bills that may be higher due to increased natural gas usage.
• Nicor Gas’ Energy Efficiency Program helps customers manage their costs by lowering out-of-pocket expenses for energy efficiency improvements through rebates and a preferred contractor network, free home energy assessments and free energy saving products. Income-qualified households can receive weatherization assistance to save energy and money. Call 877-886-4239 or visit nicorgas.com/freeweatherization for more information.

Every family deserves reliable energy at a price they can afford. For more information about each of these programs or help managing natural gas costs, please visit nicorgas.com/energyassistance.

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