( KTRS ) An Illinois program offering help with winter heating bills is preparing to enroll seniors and people with disabilities.

Enrollment for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program begins Sept. 1. The program offers assistance to low-income families by paying benefits directly to the utility companies. A single person qualifies for help if their monthly income is $1,485 or less. A two-person household can qualify with a monthly income of up to $2,003.

Families with children ages 5 and under can start applying for assistance Oct. 1. Others can begin applying Nov. 1.