Low income families in West Virginia can get help from several programs when it comes to paying their heating bills. Some of the primary resources for assistance with utility bills are known as Dollar Energy Fund, Heat Fund, LIHEAP, and the Special Reduced Rate Service Program. The services provided are meant for residents who have a low income and are struggling financially. Other support is typically for West Virginia senior citizens and lower income families with children.
The West Virginia Dollar Energy Fund is a program that helps low to moderate income residents with their utilities. This means that even if you don’t qualify for government assistance, you may still be able to get a cash grant to help pay your heating bills from the Dollar Energy Fund. Different types of expenses that are typically paid during the winter months include oil, propane, natural gas, electric, and water bills. Some people who may benefit are those who recently lost a job or have a family with an unexpected expense. Customers who are unable to pay their energy bills due to a short-term financial hardship should contact their energy provider to discuss payment options. The number you have dialed is 800-683-7036.
If you have a low income, you may be eligible to receive a discount on your heating and energy bill from the West Virginia Special Reduced Rate Service Program. Some utility companies offer a program that allows customers to pay their bills over time, in equal installments. This can make budgeting for your monthly expenses easier. The 20 percent discount program was established by the government. Households that meet the qualifications can receive a large discount on their heating bills, no matter what type of energy they use. The money saved can be used for other necessities, leaving residents with more money to cover their expenses.
In the state, there is a reduced rate offered on energy bills by the main electric and gas utilities. It can be up to 20% off. This means that you will save money during the winter months from December to April. To be eligible, you must receive Food Stamps, SSI, WV WORKS, or be over 60 years of age. The discount on your monthly bills is administered by West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR), Office of Family Support out of Charleston. If you have questions about the program or think you were denied the Special Reduced Rate, call (304) 558-0684.
The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides help to low-income households during the winter. This program provides financial assistance to low-income families to help pay for heating costs during the fall and winter months. The program is available in Charleston and other cities throughout South Carolina.
The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a program that helps eligible customers in West Virginia with their home heating bills. The program is funded by the federal government. If you qualify for this resource, you will receive cash payments directly from your energy company, which may be in the form of a credit on your account.
Other features of this program include assistance for people faced with a crisis, such as running out of fuel or a broken furnace. Families across West Virginia can receive emergency aid to help pay for heating costs during the winter. In order to qualify for this program, applicants must earn below a certain income level. This level is based on the number of people who live in your household.
The Heat Fund is a program offered in partnership with the Salvation Army and Dominion Hope. The program provides assistance to low-income households with their energy bills. This program is mostly funded by donations from the community. The money raised is then given to low income families and senior citizens who live in West Virginia. This assists with paying for natural gas and heating bills. The Salvation Army provides assistance to those in need. You can contact them at 1-800-688-4673.