Low-income households around West Central Illinois have options when it comes to energy assistance.
In September, MCS Community Services began running their 2017 Energy Assistance Program. Starting now, applications for program benefits are being accepted from all eligible low-income households.
Applications will be accepted through the end of May 2017 or until funding has depleted.
Those interested in applying can set up an appointment by calling MCS at 217-243-9404 or toll free 1-888-288-4413 between 8:30 and 4:30 p.m.
Income guidelines for eligible households are based on the size of the family and gross income over 30 days.
For families of one, the maximum 30-day gross income is $1,485. Maximum income for a family of two is $2,003. Three-member families’ gross income must not exceed $2,520 over the 30-day period and families of four carry a maximum gross income of $3,083.
Households with more than four family members can find out their income guidelines by contacting MCS’s office.
Applicants must provide certain documentation such as: social security card(s) for all household member; proof of all household gross income for the 30-day period beginning with the date of application; most recent heat and electric bills.
All household members over 18 years old who claim no income are required to provide proof of how they are surviving, for example, proof of job search, denial or appeal of disability claim, denial of unemployment, Link card, or proof of enrollment in school.