ComEd increases COVID-19 related bill assistance by $9 million

ComEd announced last week that it would add $9 million in financial assistance funding and extend payment plans to help Illinois customers struggling to pay electric bills.

“The new programs being offered today extend our ongoing efforts to help customers get to a place of stability,” ComEd CEO Joe Dominguez said. “Even before the pandemic hit, ComEd provided customers with the support they needed and worked with community organizations to generate awareness amongst customers who need help the most. In 2020, we connected customers to a record more than $75 million in financial assistance and supported more than a quarter-million customers with stabilizing grants.”

While only available for a limited time — more flexible payment arrangements will only be offered through June 30 — eligible customers will be able to spread outstanding balances over 18 monthly installments with no money down. They will also be exempted from disconnection through that date. All other eligible residential customers with outstanding balances will also be able to enroll in an 18-month payment plan but with a 10 percent down payment.

Come April, ComEd will increase the amount of funds available as one-time bill credits of up to $500 for residential customers. This will apply to customers with outstanding balances or who are looking to reconnect service but will only last while funds are available.

ComEd also offers those disconnected for non-safety reasons this year a path back to service by allowing them to reconnect by providing 25 percent of their outstanding balance. Any remaining balance would then be put on an 18 month, no-money-down payment plan.