Applications are being accepted for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for income-qualified residential customers who are age 60 and older, disabled or have at least one child 5 years old or younger. Households already disconnected or that have a disconnection notice within seven days also are eligible to apply for LIHEAP assistance. LIHEAP is a federally funded bill payment assistance program administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. LIHEAP is designed to help low- and fixed-income families meet their energy needs during the winter heating season, as well as reduce energy costs through improved energy efficiency. To qualify for LIHEAP, a household’s combined gross income for the 30 days prior to application must be at or below 60% of the state median income – for a family of four, which is $76,884 annual income or $6,407 gross monthly income. Open enrollment for all other income-eligible households will begin Saturday, Nov. 1. For eligibility information and to apply, visit www.helpillinoisfamilies.com or call 877-411-9276 (WARM). To learn more about bill payment assistance programs, visit nicorgas.com/billpaymentassistance.