As temperatures plunge across the Chicago area, many residents are bracing for a hit to their wallets: higher utility bills. The cost of heating a home continues to climb, and this winter’s sub-zero stretch is forcing furnaces to work overtime.
According to the Citizens Utility Board, gas utility rates in the Chicago area rose between 15% and 56% from December 2024 to December 2025. For households already struggling to keep up, the spike can feel overwhelming. But consumer advocates say financial assistance is available.
Applications for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program are open through mid‑April – or until funding is depleted. LIHEAP is an income‑based program that provides payments directly to a household’s utility provider to help offset heating costs.
For those who don’t qualify, another option may still be available. The Low Income Discounts Program offers eligible natural gas and ComEd customers reduced rates on their utility bills.
For more information on each of the programs, click here.
All assistance programs are income‑based, and consumer experts encourage residents to explore their options before bills become unmanageable.
