Missouri – Ameren Missouri urges low-income customers to apply soon for a state program to help reduce energy bills. The deadline for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is May 31. Page Selby, Ameren Missouri’s Manager of Customer Advocacy, explains that LIHEAP has two parts.
“The part that is ending May 31 is the one-time eligibility, so that’s going to be $318 toward their electric bill. And then, in addition to that, they can actually double up through May 31 with winter crisis intervention, which is also called ECIP, and they can be eligible for up to $800 if they’re in threats of disconnect,” Selby said.
Applications can be submitted online or mailed to the Central Missouri Community Action agency. From June 1, the Energy Crisis Intervention Program will offer up to $600 for summer energy costs. Visit the website to apply and check eligibility.
https://www.ameren.com/missouri/residential/energy-assistance.
Selby mentioned that individuals eligible for LIHEAP could also participate in a weatherization program offered by Ameren. In this program, a technician will visit your home to add insulation, ensure that windows are properly sealed, and inspect your furnace. These measures can help reduce your energy costs over time. For those not eligible for LIHEAP, Ameren provides additional energy assistance programs. One notable program is the Keeping Current program, which offers dual benefits.
Selby detailed that this program could waive an existing overdue balance and also provide a monthly credit of $35 to $90 on your electricity bill. For example, if a customer’s monthly bill is typically $100 and they receive a $90 credit, they would only pay $10 for their monthly energy usage. Additionally, several programs are available beyond May 31, including the Keeping Cool program, which helps customers manage their energy costs during warmer months.
“For disabled, folks that are seniors, or families that have a small child under five in the home, they can be eligible, if a family of four earns up to $6,250 a month, they can be eligible for Keeping Cool, which provides a $50 a month credit from May to September.”
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Selby says that program should ease the anxiety about the thermostat.
“And that’s a program we really encourage folks to run your air conditioner and let Ameren pay that $50. You know, air conditioning systems are designed to keep people safe and healthy, we want people to stay safe, especially as we’re starting to see the temperatures rise.”
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There are also medical hardship forgiveness and bundling programs available.
