Save Money Illinois: How to Get Discounted Rates on Natural Gas

Starting this month, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is offering Low-Income Discount Rates to qualifying natural gas customers across the state.

Illinois Launches Low-Income Discount Rates to Help Families Manage Utility Costs

Designed to provide much-needed financial relief, these new rates will give eligible households monthly bill credits ranging from 5 to 83 percent, depending on income, household size, and local utility costs.

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In a recent announcement, ICC Chairman Doug Scott emphasized the program's goal of alleviating financial strain for Illinois families.

Families shouldn’t have to decide between putting food on the table or heating their homes this winter. The state’s new Low-Income Discount Rates will make it easier for low-income families to manage their gas bills. Doug Scott, Chairman of Illinois Commerce Commission

The ICC approved this initiative in 2023, directing Illinois’ major gas, electric, and water companies to implement discount rates for households with incomes at or below 300 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

Automatic Enrollment and How to Apply

Customers already enrolled in Illinois’ Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will automatically receive the new Low-Income Discount Rates.

These customers must reapply to LIHEAP each year to stay enrolled. For those with incomes between 201 and 300 percent of the FPL who are not currently enrolled in LIHEAP, a 5 percent discount is available by self-reporting eligibility to their utility company.

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LIHEAP applications open on November 2, 2024. Illinois residents can apply by visiting their local Community Action Agency or by accessing utility-specific assistance options online at these links:

• Ameren Illinois Gas Energy Assistance Programs
• Nicor Gas Energy Assistance Programs
• North Shore Gas Energy Assistance Programs
• Peoples Gas Energy Assistance Programs

If you want to learn more about what the Illinois Commerce Commission, CLICK HERE.