If Covid 19 has your family in a financial pinch or worse, and the power bill is one of your concerns, there's another reprieve from Amerern. The utility has announced the extension of the COVID-19 Economic Hardship Recovery Program that provides enhanced payment assistance and arrangements for customers who have fallen behind on their utility bills. "The COVID-19 pandemic took a financial toll on many of our customers," said Richard Mark, chairman and president, Ameren Illinois. "While there are encouraging signs that the economy is improving and more people are getting back to work, we know some customers need additional time and flexibility on down payments in order to retire past due balances. We're glad to be able to offer this support." Extended payment terms and flexible down payment options are available through June 30, 2021. Customers can review their options at AmerenIllinois.com or call 1-800-755-5000 to speak with a customer service representative during regular business hours Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.   Financial assistance is also available. Information on income guidelines and eligibility for bill assistance grants can be found on the Ameren Illinois Economic Hardship Recovery Program website at AmerenIllinois.com/Recovery. Ameren Illinois encourages customers to explore these additional programs:
Grants from the Illinois Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are available to income-qualified customers. For more information on financial guidelines, and to identify an assistance agency in your community, visit HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or call 1-877-411-9276.
Middle and moderate income families who don't qualify for LIHEAP funds may qualify for assistance. For example, a family of four with a monthly income between $4,367 and $7,642 may be eligible for funding from the Energy Assistance Foundation. See the list of participating agencies by visiting WarmNeighborsCoolFriends.org.
Ameren Illinois allocates $1 million each year for assistance to qualified businesses, military customers, and residential customers through the 2011 Energy Infrastructure Modernization Act.
"Anyone having difficulty paying their bills is urged to explore these payment options and apply for funding. It is in the best interest of our customers to take action now while resources are available," said Mark. "Bills that go unpaid end up raising rates for other customers."
Ameren Illinois also offers rebates and incentives on measures to make a home more energy efficient. Through Ameren Illinois’ programs, customers can gain greater control over their energy bills. The program provides free advice, low-cost home performance retrofits, as well as rebates and financial incentives on LED lightbulbs and smart thermostats. For more information on residential energy efficiency, visit AmerenIllinoissavings.com, call 1-866-838-6918 or email IllinoisresidentialEE@ameren.com