ComEd Budget Billing: Past-Due Help & Shutoff Prevention in Illinois

If you’ve just opened a ComEd disconnect notice—or you’re already behind on your bill—it can feel overwhelming. But you’re not alone, and there are real steps you can take right now to stop a shutoff, lower your electric bill, and get help paying what you owe.

This guide walks you through exactly how to:

• Stop a ComEd disconnection
• Access emergency and long-term financial assistance
• Prevent shutoffs with legal protections and payment plans
• Save money through budget billing and low-income programs

If You Received a ComEd Disconnect Notice: Do This First

First, take a breath. Illinois law gives you at least 10 days between receiving a disconnect notice and your actual shutoff date. That window matters—use it wisely.

1. Call ComEd and request a Deferred Payment Arrangement (DPA)

A Deferred Payment Arrangement (DPA) lets you split your past-due balance into monthly installments. This can immediately stop a shutoff.

Here’s how to do it:

Call ComEd: 800-334-7661

Online DPA setup: ComEd.com/DPA

In winter, low-income households often qualify for lower down payments—sometimes just 10% instead of 25%.

2. Expect a 48-hour warning call before shutoff

By law, ComEd must try to contact you 48 hours before disconnecting your power. If you get that call, don’t wait—this is your final alert to act.

3. Use Illinois Winter Protections (Dec 1 – Mar 31)

From December through March, you can’t be shut off if:

• You use gas or electric as your primary heat source
• The forecasted temp is below 32°F
• It’s a holiday weekend or protected timeframe

During this season, DPAs require only 10% down in many cases. Read more via Illinois Legal Aid.

4. Apply for LIHEAP + Emergency Reconnection Assistance (RA)

LIHEAP is the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. If you’re close to disconnection—or already shut off—call your local LIHEAP agency immediately.

RA can offer up to $1,500 in assistance. Don’t just apply online—call your county office directly. See DCEO’s guide to applying.

5. Submit a medical certificate for seriously ill household members

If someone in your home has a serious medical condition, a physician can submit a certificate to delay disconnection up to 60 days. This pause gives you time to set up a payment plan or apply for aid.

6. If rules aren’t followed, contact the ICC

Think ComEd skipped the 48-hour call? Or ignored your winter protections? Call the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC):

ICC Consumer Services: 1-800-524-0795

They can investigate and issue a hold if your rights weren’t honored.

Already Disconnected? Here’s What to Do

If you’ve already been shut off, here’s the good news:

Once you make the required payment or get approved aid, ComEd will typically restore service within 2 hours. Still call LIHEAP for help—they may cover your reconnection.

Make Your Bill Predictable with Budget Billing

Budget Billing smooths out your electric bill across the year. Your payment is based on your average use over the last 12 months, and it only adjusts every 6 months.

If your income is unpredictable—or your usage spikes in summer or winter—this can offer peace of mind.

Sign up for Budget Billing here or through your ComEd account dashboard.

Catch Up with a Deferred Payment Arrangement (DPA)

Don’t wait for a shutoff notice. Even if you’re behind, you can set up a DPA anytime. Here’s how it helps:

• You pay a portion of your past-due balance each month
• You stay connected as long as you keep up with payments
• Winter DPAs often require less down (just 10%)

Lower Your ComEd Bill with LIHEAP, PIPP & Upcoming Discounts

LIHEAP: Help with bills and shutoffs

LIHEAP can cover utility bills and emergency reconnection—up to $1,500 in some cases.

LIHEAP hotline: 1-833-711-0374

How to apply

PIPP: Income-based billing with debt forgiveness

The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) sets your bill to a percentage of your income and forgives past-due balances over time—as long as you pay on time for 12 months.

LID: New Low-Income Discount launching Jan 2026

Coming soon, the Low-Income Discount (LID) will reduce bills for households earning up to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. You’ll self-certify through ComEd’s Smart Assistance Manager and see credits within 1–2 billing cycles.

Learn more from ComEd

Helpful Numbers & Quick Access

FAQs About ComEd Disconnect Notices and Help

What is a ComEd disconnect notice?

It’s a formal warning that your power will be shut off unless you take action. Illinois law requires at least 10 days’ notice before a disconnection.

How can I stop a ComEd shutoff?

By calling ComEd for a DPA, applying for LIHEAP or RA, or using winter shutoff protections. Act as soon as you get the notice.

What is a Deferred Payment Arrangement?

A DPA lets you split past-due bills into monthly payments while keeping your service connected.

What’s the difference between LIHEAP and PIPP?

LIHEAP gives bill and emergency help. PIPP offers steady, income-based bills with debt forgiveness if you pay on time for a year.

Is there a new discount for low-income households?

Yes. Starting January 1, 2026, the Low-Income Discount will lower bills for qualifying households—no paperwork beyond self-certification required.

Final Thoughts: You Still Have Time—and Options

If you’re behind on your bill or facing a shutoff, don’t panic. Illinois utility law gives you legal rights and real protections—but they only work if you take action.

Call ComEd. Apply for help. Set up a payment plan. Explore Budget Billing or PIPP. You’ve got tools, and this guide is your roadmap.

Next Steps: What to Do Right Now

Here’s your short list:

1. Call ComEd: 800-334-7661 to stop a shutoff with a DPA.
2. Call your LIHEAP office directly for emergency aid.
3. Apply for Budget Billing to avoid seasonal bill spikes.
4. Check if you qualify for PIPP or LID.
5. Call the ICC: 1-800-524-0795 if ComEd isn’t following shutoff rules.