Ameren Illinois is extending a break to delinquent customers.

Spokeswoman Stacey Shangraw says this winter’s weather caused many people to fall behind.

“From now until March 31st eligible customers can pay 10-percent of their outstanding balances and the rest in monthly installments” she says.

After March 31st, the down payment rises to 25-percent.  Customers who don’t enroll in the plan or make-up the overdue amounts are subject to disconnection as of April 1st.  Customers may call the customer service number listed on their bill.