Utility assistance, higher Ameren costs, and impersonation scams

Illinois began accepting LIHEAP applications October 1, 2026, with priority processing for vulnerable households. Ameren's reported supply rate of 10.441 cents per kWh is about 8% below summer but 24% above last October, while new warnings about spoofed numbers, fake workers, urgent payment demands, and requests for sensitive information add a consumer-safety concern.