ALBERT LEA — Interstate Power and Light Company, an Alliant Energy company, is reminding qualified Minnesota residents that they can apply for the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) funds now through April 30, 2011. EAP provides dollars to aid low-income households to help cover heating costs.

Alliant Energy reminds customers who are not current on their utility bills to take action prior to April 15, as the moratorium on disconnections in Minnesota ends on April 15.

EAP payments, administered through the federal LIHEAP program, correspond with household size, income level, and home energy costs. The program helps households with incomes meeting eligibly guidelines. For example, in Minnesota, a family of four that earns approximately $43,500 annually or less, or a two-person family with earnings of about $29,580 or less, may qualify for energy assistance dollars.

“This assistance will help these families keep current with heating bills and reduce the chances of falling further behind in meeting their basic needs,” said Tim Heinrich, director of customer support services. “It’s important that people know help is available now.”

To obtain energy assistance, applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible. For more information on EAP funds, people can contact their local community action agency or visit www.state.mn.us and click on “Energy Assistance.” Eligibility for energy assistance is not based on whether someone is behind on their energy bills, rent or owns their home.

If EAP funding doesn’t cover the gap, or a customer doesn’t qualify for EAP, Alliant Energy offers many payment options and encourages customers to talk to a customer service representative by calling 1-800-327-2708 to work out a payment arrangement, or by utilizing the self-payment options at alliantenergy.com. Either online or on the phone, Alliant Energy representatives are available 24-hours a day, seven days a week to help make arrangements.