If you're behind on your electric, gas, or water bills, you're not alone—and there may be help available. This kind of debt can add up fast, but you might have options before your service gets shut off or sent to collections.
Utility companies must give you notice
Before your gas or electric company can shut off your service, they must give you written notice. This includes:
- A disconnection warning at least 10 days before shutoff
- Information about how much you owe
- Steps to avoid shutoff, such as payment plans
Water shutoffs may follow different rules, depending on your town or city.
Payment assistance may be available
You may qualify for programs that can help with past-due utility bills, like:
- LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) – helps pay heating and cooling bills
- PIPP (Percentage of Income Payment Plan) – lets you pay a percentage of your income instead of the full bill
- Local funds from towns, counties, or nonprofits
Start with the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity to apply for LIHEAP or PIPP.
You have rights when dealing with utility companies
Even if you’re behind, you still have rights. You can:
- Ask for a deferred payment plan
- Dispute incorrect charges
- Ask for a medical certificate if shutoff would harm someone in your home
- File a complaint with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) if the utility won’t work with you.