As LIHEAP Registration Opens, Faver Dias Highlights Legislation Increasing Access to Program

GRAYSLAKE, Ill.  – With the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) applications opening for select groups on Oct. 1, state Rep. Laura Faver Dias, D-Grayslake, highlights legislation signed into law that increases access to the program for eligible groups. 

“We all know how expensive life has gotten across the country, including here in Illinois,” said Faver Dias. “This legislation makes a tangible difference when it comes to lowering utility costs for working families and those in need.”

Faver Dias’s House Bill 4456 expands eligibility for LIHEAP to 300% of the federal poverty level, allowing individuals with an annual income of up to $47,880, or a family of four with a household income of up to $99,000 to qualify for relief.  

The measure also tackles utility surcharge rates that have been rising and becoming a growing concern for working families throughout Illinois. The legislation would permanently prevent an expected surcharge rate increase – providing long-term financial relief for all ratepayers. 

“With high gas prices, increasing inflation, and rising everyday costs, families and individuals shouldn’t have to worry about high utility bills,” said Faver Dias. “As registration for LIHEAP opens up this October and November, I hope families across the state will be able to use it to help pay their utility bills and keep costs down.”

Eligible groups for early application to LIHEAP include adults 60 and older, individuals with a disability, families with children five years old or younger, and households that are disconnected from their utilities, have a disconnection notice or have less than 25% in their propane tank. Applications for all other eligible households will open on November 1. 

House Bill 4456 was signed into law, and it went into effect July 9, 2026.