ROCK FALLS - Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, income-eligible residents now have more time to apply for funding to help with energy bills, thanks to an extension of the deadline for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program, due to end May 31, has been extended until June 30.

Illinois families are facing many challenges to cope with the COVID-19 virus. Some have lost jobs or had their hours of employment reduced. These circumstances could lead to difficulty in paying your utility bill. If you find yourself in that situation, there may be assistance available through Tri-County Opportunities Council’s LIHEAP program. This program can help pay a portion of an eligible household’s utility bill. Eligibility is mainly based on household size and income. Anyone facing difficulty in paying their utility bill and has not applied yet is encouraged to contact Tri-County Opportunities Council as soon as possible. If a household has already received a LIHEAP benefit since Oct. 1, 2019, they still might be eligible for additional benefit through reconnection assistance.

LIHEAP applications will be taken through June 30 or until funds are exhausted. The gross income for the 30 days prior to the application date cannot exceed the following: 1-person household, $1,1561; 2-person household, $2,114; 3-person household, $2,666; 4-person household, $3,219; 5-person household, $3,771; 6-person household, $4,324.

Documents needed at the time of application include: proof of income for all household members for the previous 30 days including the day of application, proof of Social Security numbers for all members of the household, a copy of current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days (if energy directly paid for), a copy of rental agreement (if renting) showing that utilities are included, the monthly rental amount and landlord contact information and, proof the household received TANF or other benefits, such as Medical Eligibility or SNAP, if receiving assistance from the Illinois Department of Human Services.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Tri-County Opportunities Council offices are no longer able to do in-person appointments for LIHEAP but mailed, phone and faxed applications are being accepted. Residents should call 800-323-5434 to secure an application.

Tri-County Opportunities Council also has other types of assistance available, such as food, rent assistance, etc. Learn more about available services by visiting www.tcochelps.org, the Tri-County Opportunities Council Facebook page and/or by calling 1-800-323-5434.