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Enrollment for LIHEAP energy assistance is open through May 31; Ameren Missouri programs available year-round

ST. LOUIS (May 1, 2024) – Ameren Missouri is reminding its customers that the deadline for applying to the state’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is May 31. The company partners with more than 800 community agencies, such as Community Action Agency of St. Louis County, Inc. (CAASTLC), to help customers apply for LIHEAP and additional energy assistance programs.

"We’re encouraging Missouri families to apply for LIHEAP throughout the month of May to avoid missing out on this expiring utility bill assistance," said Linda Huntspon, CEO of CAASTLC. "The application process is simple, but we can always help with the paperwork. Either apply directly online or email a copy to CAASTLC as soon as possible.”

If you qualify for LIHEAP, you will receive assistance in the form of a one-time payment of your choice for your heating or cooling bill. Qualifications are based on the number of people in your household, your household income and your energy source.

You may also qualify for the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP). If you are in financial crisis, ECIP can provide additional assistance of up to $800 for winter energy costs now through May 31. Starting June 1, ECIP can also provide up to $600 for summer energy costs. A disconnection notice is required for this program. For more information on LIHEAP and ECIP, visit AmerenMissouri.com/LIHEAP.

"Ameren Missouri is focusing our outreach efforts on communities that have the greatest need by offering one-on-one assistance while partnering with community agencies and other utility companies,” said Joe Solari, vice president of customer experience. “So far in 2024, customers have received over $11 million in assistance, and there are still funds available for families and individuals in need.”

For customers who don't qualify for LIHEAP but are struggling to pay their bills, Ameren Missouri offers flexible payment options, energy assistance grants and more for monthly bill assistance or past-due bills.

• For monthly bill assistance:
  • Keeping Current helps make paying an energy bill more affordable. It includes a monthly bill credit between $35 and $90 along with help to reduce the total amount owed.
  • Keeping Cool provides up to five bill credits of $50 from May through September. Eligible customers include senior citizens, those with children under age 5, or who have a documented chronic medical condition or a disability.
  • Qualifying homeowners and renters may also be eligible to receive  weatherization improvements such as insulation and the sealing of doors and windows.
• For past-due bills:
  • The Dollar More Program can help those struggling to afford their energy bill. Customers can also donate to help others in need.
  • The New Start Energy Relief pilot program helps unhoused electric customers return to permanent housing and reestablish service.
  • Flexible payment arrangements can be made with Ameren Missouri.

Ameren Missouri also offers several health and safety options, including medical equipment registry and medical hardship extension. Additional programs include Caring Contact (third-party notification) and Critical Medical Needs. Visit AmerenMissouri.com/EnergyAssistance to learn more.

About Ameren Missouri
Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years, and the company's electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. Ameren Missouri's mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 135,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company's service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit Ameren.com/Missouri or follow us at @AmerenMissouri or Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.