RICHMOND, VA (October 26, 2022) – The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) is currently accepting applications for fuel assistance online and at all local departments of social services through Friday, November 11. Applications may also be submitted by telephone by contacting the Enterprise Customer Service Center, Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. at (855) 635-4370.
The Energy Assistance Program, funded by the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) federal block grant, provides state support to assist low-income households in meeting their home energy needs such as electricity, natural and liquid propane gas, oil, kerosene, coal and wood. Assistance may also be available for delivery and installation charges as well as connection or re-connection fees.
To qualify for fuel assistance, the maximum gross monthly income for a one-person household must not exceed $1,699. For a household of four, the maximum gross monthly income is $3,469. Additional income guidelines are as follows:
Household Size
Monthly Income Limit
1 – $1,699
2 – $2,289
3 – $2,879
4 – $3,469
5 – $4,059
6 – $4,649
7 – $5,239
8 – $5,829
Each additional person $590
“The Energy Assistance Program is a critical lifeline for individuals and families who may be sacrificing basic expenses in order to meet rising energy costs. The winter months can be very difficult when families are struggling to stay warm. We are pleased to again provide this resource and help Virginia residents who otherwise would not have the resources to afford their heating bills or overcome energy emergencies,” said VDSS Commissioner Danny Avula. “Last year, fuel assistance was provided to over 107,000 Virginia households. We encourage individuals and families to submit an application for consideration as soon as possible.”
Families and individuals can apply through their local department of social services. To apply online or check eligibility for benefits assistance, visit the CommonHelp website at https://commonhelp.virginia.gov.
This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access.