SPRINGFIELD – Qualifying residents are reminded they can avail themselves of household assistance through the Help Illinois Families program.

Launched in September, the program provides $336 million in household assistance, including $295 in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program utility bill assistance. The program is funded in large part by the American Rescue Plan Act.

The state of Illinois and partners at the Citizens Utility Board are urging residents to take advantage of LIHEAP while funds remain available and avoid delaying payments on billing while the annual shut-off moratorium is in effect from Dec. 1 to March 31.

The amount available to offset utility costs is at a record level. Last year, more than $343 million was provided to 289,000 families.

Households at 200% the federal poverty level or below are income-eligible.

To apply, go to helpillinoisfamilies.com, or contact the hotline service providing real-time assistance in more than 30 languages at 833-711-0374.