Today Nicor Gas announced that it is encouraging senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and those disconnected for non-payment to take advantage of the early enrollment period for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). During the early enrollment period of September 2nd through October 31st, senior citizens (60 years plus), persons with disabilities, and those disconnected for non-payment can apply for LIHEAP before general enrollment opens to the public on November 1st.
LIHEAP is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the State of Illinois. The program is administered by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services and assists eligible low-income households pay their energy bills. Assistance is presented to qualifying applicants in one annual payment. Income, household size, fuel type, and geographic location determine the amount of assistance. To qualify, household monthly income cannot exceed 150 percent of the federally established poverty level. For more information or to apply for assistance, call 1-877-411-9276 or visit www.nicorgas.com and click on "Financial Assistance."
"Each year many customers who might qualify to receive grants go without assistance as funds run out," said Kevin Kirby, Vice President of Customer Care for Nicor Gas. "LIHEAP is a needed program that helps households meet their financial energy needs, and we are encouraging qualifying customers to apply early for available funds," continued Kirby.
Households that are disconnected for non-payment should call 1-877-411-9276 to verify individual county start dates. Customers are encouraged to read their bills and customer newsletters each month to stay informed about bill payment options, assistance programs, and the national situation on gas costs. For additional information about these issues, customer's can also visit www.nicorgas.com and click on "Managing Your Gas Costs."
Nicor Gas is one of the nation's largest gas distribution companies.Owned by Nicor Inc. (NYSE:GAS) a holding company, Nicor Gas has provided safe and reliable natural gas services for over 50 years. The Company serves more than two million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information on Nicor Gas, visit www.nicorgas.com.