Illinois AG Reminds Past-Due Utility Customers That Utilities May Begin Disconnecting Customers Beginning April 1

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Published on March 25 2021 10:44 am
Last Updated on March 25 2021 10:44 am
Written by Greg Sapp

Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul is urging utility customers to be aware that state-regulated electric, natural gas, and utilities may begin to disconnect customers for non-payment beginning April 1. Raoul encourages residents who are behind on their bills to contact their utilities now to learn about assistance and repayment options to prevent disconnection.

The annual winter moratorium on utility disconnections expires on March 31, and utility companies may begin to send disconnection notices to customers beginning on April 1. The Attorney General’s office worked in collaboration with consumer advocates to obtain relief for customers with past due balances that will be in place until June 30, 2021. Consumers who are struggling to pay their utility bills should notify their utility provider that they are experiencing financial hardship and request information about assistance and repayment options. The Attorney General’s office has resources available for Illinois customers that detail their repayment and financial assistance options, which can be found on the Attorney General’s website.

Customers who need assistance may be eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Households with existing past due balances are encouraged to apply for financial assistance before they are disconnected. Funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are limited. Raoul encourages customers outside of Chicago to call the Illinois LIHEAP Hotline at 1-877-411-9276, or visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website to determine whether they are eligible or to find an agency that can help with applications.

In addition, federal rental and utility assistance is expected to become available soon. For more information please visit the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s website.

Residents who have questions can contact the Attorney General’s office at 1-800-386-5438 (Chicago), 1-800-243-0618 (Springfield), 1-800-243-0607 (Carbondale), or by filing an online complaint.