ST. LOUIS — Missouri's federally-funded program called Low-Income Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) has deadlines approaching this month and next month. The utility company partners with more than 800 community partners including the Community Action Agency of St. Louis County Inc. and additional agencies to make it happen. Those interested in getting some relief on their energy bills should apply before the May 31 deadline. The program is available to Ameren and Spire customers.
Here are the qualifications of LIHEAP:
- Be a Missouri resident
- Be a U.S. citizen or be legally admitted for permanent residence
- Live in the household, be responsible for paying the utility bill, must be over 18 and included on the application
- Have $3000 or less in bank accounts, investments or retirement accounts
- Meet specific income guidelines
- For more information about requirements, contact the Contracted Agency in your area
Here are helpful tips to apply:
- Answer all questions completely; sign and date the application
- Include gross income records for the month prior to the application month for all household members over 18 not receiving food stamps or if everyone in the household receives food stamps; you do not need to send in gross income records for prior month.
- Include a copy of social security cards for all household members not receiving public assistance
- Include the account number and a copy of your most recent bill
- Save your application to your computer if it will be electronically submitted
If you qualify for LIHEAP you will receive a one-time payment for your choice of heating or cooling bill. Qualifications will be based on the number of people in your household, your household income and energy source
People may also qualify for the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP). ECIP can provide up to $800 for winter energy costs now through May 31. Then starting June 1, ECIP can also provide up to $600 for summer energy costs, but a disconnection notice is required for this program.
"Ameren Missouri is focusing our outreach efforts on communities that have the greatest need by offering one-on-one assistance while partnering with community agencies and other utility companies,” said Joe Solari, vice president of customer experience. “So far in 2024, customers have received over $11 million in assistance, and there are still funds available for families and individuals in need.”
Customers who don't qualify for LIHEAP and are struggling to pay their bills may seek the options below:
- For monthly bill assistance:
- Keeping Current helps make paying an energy bill more affordable. It includes a monthly bill credit between $35 and $90 along with help to reduce the total amount owed.
- Keeping Cool provides up to five bill credits of $50 from May through September. Eligible customers include senior citizens, those with children under age 5, or who have a documented chronic medical condition or a disability.
- Qualifying homeowners and renters may also be eligible to receive weatherization improvements such as insulation and the sealing of doors and windows.
- For past-due bills:
- The Dollar More Program can help those struggling to afford their energy bill. Customers can also donate to help others in need.
- The New Start Energy Relief pilot program helps unhoused electric customers return to permanent housing and reestablish service.
- Flexible payment arrangements can be made with Ameren Missouri.