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Can they shut me off in Illinois?
Short answer · Winter termination rules · December 1 – March 31
From December 1 through March 31, an Illinois gas or electric utility cannot disconnect a home's primary space heating for nonpayment unless it has first offered a deferred payment arrangement and given notice (220 ILCS 5/8-206). Customers enrolled in the state energy assistance program are protected in that period. Large electric utilities cannot shut off residential electric-heat customers.
Who is protected
Residential customers whose gas or electricity is the primary heat source or runs the heating equipment.
What to do in the next 48 hours
- Ask your utility for a deferred payment arrangement.
- Apply for LIHEAP through your local agency.
- Separately, shutoffs are barred on days forecast at 32°F or below (220 ILCS 5/8-205).
- Still stuck? Contact the Illinois Commerce Commission (free).
Frequently asked questions
Can my utility shut off my heat in Illinois during winter?
From December 1 through March 31, an Illinois gas or electric utility cannot disconnect a home's primary space heating for nonpayment unless it has first offered a deferred payment arrangement and given notice (220 ILCS 5/8-206). Customers enrolled in the state energy assistance program are protected in that period. Large electric utilities cannot shut off residential electric-heat customers.
Who is protected in Illinois?
Residential customers whose gas or electricity is the primary heat source or runs the heating equipment.
What should I do first?
Ask your utility for a deferred payment arrangement.
Official sources
- 220 ILCS 5/8-206, Winter termination for nonpayment (Illinois General Assembly)
- 83 Ill. Adm. Code 280.130 (JCAR)
Last verified: . This is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so confirm with your utility or state commission.
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