For more information on these individual programs and services, including basic documentation and qualification criteria, please continue reading below.
National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) – LIHEAP
The National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) service is a national hotline that helps individuals locate local Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) providers. NEAR connects households with organizations that offer utility bill assistance, emergency energy services, reconnection support, and resources to prevent utility shutoffs. The service helps families identify available programs in their area and provides referrals to local agencies administering energy assistance.
Basic Eligibility:
- Households experiencing difficulty paying heating or cooling bills
- Individuals seeking local LIHEAP providers or utility assistance programs
Common Documentation Requested Later by Referrals:
- Government-issued Photo ID
- Utility bills
- Proof of address
- Income verification
- Social Security cards (if applicable)
Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) – LIHEAP
The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity administers Illinois' Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides financial assistance to help eligible households pay heating and cooling expenses. The program may also assist with restoring disconnected services and preventing utility shutoffs during times of financial hardship.
Basic Eligibility:
- Illinois residents meeting income guidelines
- Households responsible for home energy costs
Common Documentation Requested:
- Photo ID
- Utility bills or shutoff notices
- Proof of income
- Social Security cards
- Proof of residency
Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP)
The Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP) helps eligible households reduce long-term energy costs through home efficiency improvements. Services may include insulation, air sealing, furnace repair or replacement, and other upgrades that lower utility usage and improve home safety.
Basic Eligibility:
- Low-income Illinois households
- Homeowners and renters (with landlord approval when required)
Common Documentation Requested:
- Photo ID
- Utility bills
- Proof of income
- Lease or proof of ownership
- Social Security numbers
City of Chicago Department of Finance
The City of Chicago Department of Finance manages municipal billing and payment services, including water account administration and payment arrangements. Residents may contact the department regarding outstanding balances, billing questions, and financial hardship options related to city utility accounts.
Basic Eligibility:
- Chicago residents with City utility accounts
- Individuals seeking account assistance or payment arrangements
Common Documentation Requested:
- Photo ID
- Account number
- Proof of residency
- Billing statements
Chicago Department of Water Management
The Chicago Department of Water Management provides water and sewer services to Chicago residents and businesses. The department assists customers with billing inquiries, account management, payment plans, and other resources to help maintain water service.
Basic Eligibility:
- Chicago water account holders
- Residents seeking assistance with water billing or service concerns
Common Documentation Requested:
- Water account information
- Photo ID
- Utility statements
- Proof of residency
Chicago 311
Chicago 311 serves as the City's non-emergency service center, connecting residents to municipal programs and utility-related resources. Residents may use 311 to report service issues, request information, or obtain referrals for utility assistance and city services.
Basic Eligibility:
Common Documentation Requested:
- Address information
- Account information (if applicable)
- Service request details
ComEd Customer Assistance Programs
ComEd offers a variety of customer assistance programs designed to help eligible households manage electric bills, avoid service disconnection, and improve energy affordability. Programs may include payment arrangements, bill assistance grants, budget billing, and energy efficiency initiatives.
Basic Eligibility:
- Active ComEd customers
- Some programs have income requirements
Common Documentation Requested:
- ComEd account information
- Utility bills or shutoff notices
- Proof of income
- Photo ID
Peoples Gas Assistance Programs
Peoples Gas provides assistance options for customers experiencing financial hardship, including payment plans, grants, and referrals to energy assistance programs. Services are intended to help customers maintain natural gas service and avoid disconnection.
Basic Eligibility:
- Active Peoples Gas customers
- Some assistance programs have income requirements
Common Documentation Requested:
- Gas account information
- Utility bills or shutoff notices
- Proof of income
- Photo ID
Nicor Gas Sharing Program
The Nicor Gas Sharing Program provides one-time financial assistance grants to eligible customers who are experiencing temporary financial hardship and struggling to pay their natural gas bills. The program is administered through community agencies across Illinois.
Basic Eligibility:
- Active Nicor Gas customers
- Income and hardship requirements apply
Common Documentation Requested:
- Gas account information
- Utility bills
- Proof of income
- Photo ID
Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA)
CEDA administers utility assistance programs throughout Illinois, including LIHEAP and emergency energy services. The organization helps households avoid utility disconnection, restore service, and access long-term energy assistance resources.
Basic Eligibility:
- Illinois residents meeting income guidelines
- Households responsible for utility costs
Common Documentation Requested:
- Photo ID
- Utility bills or shutoff notices
- Proof of income
- Social Security cards
- Proof of residency
Illinois Joining Forces (IJF)
Illinois Joining Forces connects Veterans, Service Members, and their families with utility assistance resources and community support programs throughout Illinois. Staff can provide referrals to local agencies that assist with utility payments, emergency financial aid, and other support services.
Basic Eligibility:
- Veterans, Service Members, and military families
- Program eligibility varies by referral partner
Common Documentation Requested:
- DD-214 or proof of service
- Photo ID
- Utility bills or shutoff notices
- Proof of income (if required)
United Way 211
United Way 211 is a free and confidential referral service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Specialists connect callers with utility assistance programs, emergency financial services, and community resources to help prevent utility disconnection and maintain household stability.
Basic Eligibility:
- Open to all residents seeking assistance
Common Documentation Requested:
- Generally none for referrals
- Documentation may be required by referred agencies
Catholic Charities of Chicago
Catholic Charities of Chicago provides emergency financial assistance and referrals to households experiencing hardship. Depending on funding availability, assistance may include support with utility bills, emergency needs, and case management services.
Basic Eligibility:
- Individuals and families experiencing financial hardship
- Program-specific eligibility may apply
Common Documentation Requested:
- Photo ID
- Utility bills or shutoff notices
- Proof of income
- Proof of residency
Volunteers of America Illinois (VOA)
Volunteers of America Illinois provides supportive services and referrals for individuals and families facing financial hardship. Utility assistance may be available directly or through partner organizations to help households maintain essential services.
Basic Eligibility:
- Individuals and families experiencing hardship
- Veterans may qualify for additional services
Common Documentation Requested:
- Photo ID
- Utility bills or shutoff notices
- Proof of income
- DD-214 (for Veteran-specific programs)
All Chicago
All Chicago coordinates resources to prevent and end homelessness throughout Chicago and Cook County. The organization may connect individuals and families to emergency financial assistance, housing stabilization services, and programs that help maintain utility service during times of crisis.
Basic Eligibility:
- Individuals and families at risk of housing instability or homelessness
- Eligibility varies by referred program
Common Documentation Requested:
- Photo ID
- Utility bills or shutoff notices
- Proof of income
- Housing documentation (if applicable)
If you have further questions regarding these services, please contact our main office at 312.433.6010 and select Menu Option 4 to speak with a representative who can assist you with navigating this issue.
