Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Virginia

Last updated: September 2025

If you’re staring at a shutoff notice, focus on the three fastest moves first. Then come back and work through the full guide. Every program and organization below is linked so you can click straight to applications or phone numbers.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call and get a same‑day hold on disconnection with a medical certification or payment plan. Ask your utility for the “Serious Medical Condition” delay and request their form; you can also use the State Corporation Commission form and call 1-800-552-7945 for help if needed. Learn the 30‑day medical delay rule and your weather shutoff protections through the Virginia Administrative Code and Code of Virginia. Use these links right away: SCC Utility Complaints, Medical Delay Rule (20VAC5‑330), Extreme Heat/Cold Shutoff Ban (§15.2‑2121.2). (scc.virginia.gov)
• Apply for state energy help right now. Submit the Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Crisis request if you have a disconnect notice or no heat, or Cooling help in summer. Apply online by creating a CommonHelp account, or apply by phone. Start here: Virginia Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), CommonHelp online application, VDSS phone 1‑855‑635‑4370. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Ask your utility for their emergency fund and a payment plan while your LIHEAP processes. Dominion’s EnergyShare and other utility hardship funds can pay directly to your account. Check these first: Dominion EnergyShare, AEP Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor (Dollar Energy Fund), Columbia Gas HeatShare. (dominionenergy.com)

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

• Energy assistance portal: Virginia Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), CommonHelp apply online, Find your local DSS office. (dss.virginia.gov)
• State utility regulator: SCC Public Utility Regulation, File a utility complaint, SCC toll‑free 1‑800‑552‑7945. (scc.virginia.gov)
• Cooling/Heating emergency seasons: EAP dates and components, Administrative Code application window, LIHEAP Clearinghouse — VA profile. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Find local charities fast: 211 Virginia search, Virginia Community Action Agencies directory, United Way Southwest VA resources. (211virginia.org)
• Accessibility and language: Virginia Relay 711 & VDDHH, Cover Virginia language help, SCC medical delay form info. (vddhh.virginia.gov)

How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in Virginia Today

If you have a cut‑off date this week, take these steps in order. The goal is to get a hold placed, secure a plan, then bring in help dollars.

• Call your utility’s credit team and ask for a medical or weather protection delay: Under state rules, you can delay disconnection 30 days with a Serious Medical Condition Certification signed by a doctor or nurse practitioner; you can also get a 15‑day temporary delay while you obtain the form. Weather rules also block shutoffs at or above 92°F and at or below 32°F, and on Fridays, weekends, and state holidays. Use these rule links and keep them open when you call: Medical delay rule (20VAC5‑330), Extreme heat/cold protection (§15.2‑2121.2), SCC help line 1‑800‑552‑7945. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
• Lock in a payment arrangement while you apply for aid: Most utilities will set up payment plans and note your LIHEAP application on the account. Ask for fees to be waived and for the longest plan they offer. Here are the pages to request plans: Dominion payment plans, Appalachian Power arrangements, Virginia Natural Gas payment options. (dominionenergy.com)
• Submit a Crisis or Cooling LIHEAP application the same day: Apply online or by phone. Crisis covers no‑heat, imminent cut‑off, broken heat, deposits for heat, and primary heat bills in winter; Cooling covers AC repair, a new window unit, deposits, and the electric portion to run cooling for eligible households in summer. Start here: Virginia Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), Apply at CommonHelp, Find Local DSS. (dss.virginia.gov)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the regulator for an urgent complaint and ask for a same‑day review by the SCC analyst; they can broker solutions quickly. Then request a charity payment from your utility’s hardship fund. Use: SCC complaint page, Dominion EnergyShare agencies, Dollar Energy Fund — Virginia programs. (scc.virginia.gov)

Virginia’s Main Utility Help Programs (What They Cover, When to Apply, How Much)

Below is a fast, scannable table. After the table, you’ll find detailed step‑by‑step sections for each program with documents, timelines, and Plan B options.

Step‑by‑Step: Virginia Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

What to do first: Submit your application online or by phone. Use the online portal if you can; it timestamps your filing. If you can’t get online, call to apply by phone and ask them to text or email your confirmation number.

Virginia’s Energy Assistance Program has four parts: Fuel (heating bills), Crisis (emergencies like no‑heat or disconnection), Cooling (summer electric/AC help), and Weatherization (efficiency through DHCD). Application windows are fixed each year. Start here: EAP overview and dates, CommonHelp apply, Local DSS office finder. (dss.virginia.gov)

Eligibility: You must be responsible for your heating or cooling costs and meet income guidelines (≤150% of the Federal Poverty Level for Fuel, Crisis, and Cooling). Cooling also requires a “vulnerable person” in the home: age 60+, a person with a disability, or a child under 6. Check benefit ranges and window dates for the current year. Read: EAP eligibility, VA LIHEAP profile (benefit ranges), Application period rule. (dss.virginia.gov)

Required documents: Have your photo ID, SSNs (or alternate IDs) for household members, proof of last 30 days’ income, your most recent utility bill, your lease or mortgage (to show address), and proof of disability/age if applying for Cooling. Upload via CommonHelp or hand to your local DSS. Use: CommonHelp, Find Local DSS, EAP forms (printer page). (dss.virginia.gov)

Timelines: Crisis requests move faster; Cooling/Fuel determinations can take longer. Expect faster decisions during emergencies and longer during peak windows. Always call to confirm current processing times in your locality before you plan your payment. Check details and plan around the posted windows. Use: EAP overview, LIHEAP Clearinghouse — VA, Local DSS contact. (dss.virginia.gov)

How to apply:

• Online at CommonHelp (best), by phone at 1‑855‑635‑4370, or by turning in a paper to your local DSS office. The EAP page links all current forms and dates. Use: Apply online, VDSS EAP, Local DSS finder. (dss.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility’s hardship fund for a one‑time payment and talk to the SCC if you face a shutoff while waiting. Try: Dominion EnergyShare, Dollar Energy — Virginia utilities, SCC complaint support. (dominionenergy.com)

PIPP — Percentage of Income Payment Program (Dominion and Appalachian Power)

What to do first: See if PIPP will lower your monthly bill more than a normal payment plan, then apply through CommonHelp or at your local DSS. This is a “set it and forget it” cap on your monthly electric bill.

How it works: If your utility is Dominion or Appalachian Power and your income is ≤150% FPL, PIPP caps the bill at 10% of income if your primary heat is electric and 6% if you heat with something else. Each month you pay on time, 1/12 of your old past‑due balance is forgiven. Apply here and read the program specifics: PIPP (VDSS), CommonHelp, SCC Utility Regulation page. (dss.virginia.gov)

Notes and realistic expectations: PIPP is funded by a universal service charge and can pause new enrollments if funding is tight. If you miss payments or don’t reverify income, you can be dropped and may lose arrears forgiveness. Confirm with your utility’s customer service before switching. Use: PIPP details, Dominion customer options, AEP assistance page. (dss.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you don’t qualify or funding is paused, ask for a long‑term payment plan and layer utility hardship grants (EnergyShare or Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor). Try: EnergyShare, Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor, 211 Virginia (other local funds). (dominionenergy.com)

Dominion Energy Virginia Customers

What to do first: Request a payment plan, then apply for EnergyShare if you cannot bridge the gap. After that, if you’re eligible, consider PIPP.

Dominion offers payment plans and EnergyShare. EnergyShare is “last resort” help; it’s not income‑based but does require a documented crisis. Heating help runs Oct 1–May 31 (up to $600),CoolinghelprunsJun1–Sep30(upto$300). Start here: EnergyShare main page, EnergyShare agencies, Dominion assistance & payment plans. (dominionenergy.com)

Dominion customers can also use state Cooling Assistance in summer and Fuel/Crisis in winter. If you’re behind on a big balance and qualify, PIPP can cap your bill and erase arrears over time. Combine these options: EAP Cooling/Fuel/Crisis, CommonHelp apply, PIPP application (VDSS). (dss.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 for emergency local funds, and if a disconnect is imminent, contact SCC for help negotiating a solution. Try: 211 Virginia, SCC complaint line, VDSS EAP. (211virginia.org)

Appalachian Power (APCo/AEP) Customers

What to do first: Ask for a payment arrangement, then apply for Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor (Dollar Energy Fund) and check PIPP eligibility.

AEP’s Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor program gives grants applied right to your bill (open seasonally). PIPP can cap monthly bills for Appalachian Power households, with arrears forgiveness for on‑time payments. Use these links: AEP payment assistance, Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor (agencies), Dollar Energy — VA program rules. (appalachianpower.com)

For heating emergencies, apply for LIHEAP Crisis right away, and for Fuel/Cooling during their windows. Use: EAP, CommonHelp, Find Local DSS. (dss.virginia.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Pair a Dollar Energy grant with county‑level charity help through 211, and call SCC if a shutoff is looming. Try: Dollar Energy — VA utilities, 211 Virginia, SCC consumer line. (dollarenergy.org)

Natural Gas Customers (VNG, Columbia Gas, Washington Gas)

What to do first: Ask for a payment plan and hardship grant. Then stack LIHEAP Crisis for heat emergencies.

• Virginia Natural Gas: Call Salvation Army offices listed on VNG’s assistance page for an appointment (no walk‑ins). Also explore 211 for funds. Use: VNG Energy Assistance Programs, 211 Virginia, EAP (state LIHEAP). (virginianaturalgas.com)
• Columbia Gas of Virginia: HeatShare (Dollar Energy) can pay up to $500 if you’ve made a small recent payment and have a disconnect notice. If you’re in crisis, apply for LIHEAP by phone or online. Use: HeatShare, Energy Assistance Resource Center, CommonHelp. (columbiagasva.com)
• Washington Gas (Northern Virginia): Their income‑qualified efficiency program is temporarily on hold as of May 1, 2025; still call for standard payment plans and check 211 for local charity aid. Use: WG income‑qualified program status, 211 Virginia, SCC Public Utility Regulation. (wgsmartsavings.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your locality’s DSS to process a Crisis application fast. Then appeal to SCC if needed. Use: EAP Crisis (VDSS), Local DSS, SCC complaint. (dss.virginia.gov)

Water and Sewer Bill Help (Selected Local Programs)

What to do first: Call your local water utility customer service, then ask about any city/utility hardship funds.

• Richmond (DPU) MetroCare Water Program: Up to $500 toward billed water/wastewater and conservation repairs; apply through partner agencies CAPUP or ACTS with an appointment. Start here: Richmond DPU billing & MetroCare, CAPUP, ACTS Richmond. (rva.gov)
• Hampton Roads (HRSD/HRUBS) H2O — Help To Others: One‑time help, generally up to $500, administered by Salvation Army; referrals via the Regional Housing Crisis Hotline 757‑227‑5932. Learn more: H2O overview, Salvation Army H2O details, H2O donation/FAQ. (hamptonroads.gov)
• Virginia American Water (select localities): H2O Help to Others grants up to $500 per year for eligible customers; call 1‑800‑452‑6863 to ask for Dollar Energy Fund application sites. Use: VA American Water H2O, Dollar Energy — H2O program details, 211 Virginia. (amwater.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 211 for church and nonprofit funds that can pay water bills directly, and see if your locality has emergency assistance through human services. Try: 211 Virginia, Local DSS directory, Arlington emergency financial assistance. (211virginia.org)

Know Your Shutoff Rights (Use These When You Call)

Key protections: A 30‑day delay with a valid Serious Medical Condition Certification; a 15‑day temporary delay while you obtain the certificate; reconnection within 14 days of a medical form without upfront payment; and weather‑related bans on shutoffs (≥92°F or ≤32°F, plus no Friday/weekend/holiday shutoffs). Read or cite the rules on the phone to strengthen your case. Use: Medical delay (20VAC5‑330), Extreme heat/cold ban, SCC consumer help. (law.lis.virginia.gov)

Escalation: If your utility refuses or mishandles required notices, call the SCC’s Division of Public Utility Regulation. They can talk to the utility and often get same‑day solutions. Keep the toll‑free number and email handy. Use: SCC Public Utilities portal, SCC contact list, SCC complaint page. (scc.virginia.gov)

Reality check: Demand is high during extreme weather and at the start/end of program windows. Funds can run out. Always ask for hold codes, confirmation numbers, and names. Pair a protection (medical/weather) with a payment arrangement and an active application. Use: EAP windows (VDSS), LIHEAP Clearinghouse — VA dates/benefits, 211 Virginia search. (dss.virginia.gov)

Internet and Phone Discounts After ACP Wind‑Down

What to do first: If your internet bill spiked after the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) wind‑down, switch to a Lifeline‑compatible plan and ask your provider about house brand “low‑cost internet” offers.

The FCC confirmed ACP funding wind‑down in 2024. While ACP ended, the federal Lifeline program still provides up to $9.25 per month on qualifying phone or internet; some carriers stack additional discounts. Start here: FCC ACP wind‑down info, USAC Lifeline consumer page, Virginia SCC Lifeline overview. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your library for free Wi‑Fi options and check your school district for hotspot loans. Also search 211 for “internet” or “technology” help. Try: 211 Virginia, USAC Lifeline — get started, SCC communications consumer help. (211virginia.org)

Weatherization and Energy Efficiency (Cut Bills for Good)

What to do first: Put your name on the Weatherization Assistance Program waitlist now, even if you’re dealing with a current bill. The sooner you’re on the list, the sooner crews can help seal and repair your home.

Virginia WAP, run by DHCD through local nonprofits, provides no‑cost home energy improvements like insulation, air sealing, duct repairs, and safer heating/cooling systems. It reduces bills long‑term and supports health and safety. Start here: DHCD WAP overview, Find a local WAP provider, 2025 WAP plan notice. (dhcd.virginia.gov)

Electric cooperatives also point members to WAP and sometimes sponsor extra upgrades. Check your co‑op’s site and ask member services about “income‑qualifying” programs. Examples include SVEC’s income‑qualifying weatherization and Northern Neck Electric’s WAP referral hub. Use: SVEC weatherization, Northern Neck Electric WAP info, DHCD WAP. (svec.coop)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for EnergyShare Weatherization if you’ve received EnergyShare bill help, and ask your local Community Action Agency about efficiency kits and minor repairs. Try: EnergyShare weatherization, Community Action Agencies directory, 211 Virginia. (dominionenergy.com)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Apply for state energy help: VDSS Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), CommonHelp apply, DSS office finder. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Stop a shutoff: Medical delay 20VAC5‑330, Heat/cold shutoff ban §15.2‑2121.2, SCC complaint line. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
• Utility hardship funds: Dominion EnergyShare, Dollar Energy — VA, Columbia Gas HeatShare. (dominionenergy.com)
• Cooling help (summer): LIHEAP Cooling, Dominion EnergyShare Cooling, County DSS example (Prince William). (dss.virginia.gov)
• Water help: Richmond MetroCare Water, Hampton Roads H2O, Virginia American Water H2O. (rva.gov)

Application Checklist (Print/Screenshot Friendly)

• Photo ID for you: Virginia DSS contact, Local DSS finder, 211 Virginia, document help. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Proof of each household member: SSN or alternate ID; birthdates; include kids. Use: VDSS Energy Assistance, CommonHelp account, Appeals info (VDSS). (dss.virginia.gov)
• Income for last 30 days: Pay stubs, benefits letters, child support proof. Use: CommonHelp upload, CoverVA help line, Local DSS. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Most recent utility bill(s): Electric, gas, bulk fuel, water (if seeking local water help). Use: Dominion account, AEP account, Virginia Natural Gas. (dominionenergy.com)
• Proof of residence: Lease, mortgage, or statement; matches your bill. Use: VDSS EAP, Local DSS finder, 211 Virginia. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Cooling‑only extra: Proof of vulnerable person (60+, disability, or under 6). Use: Cooling rules (EAP), Local DSS, LIHEAP VA profile. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Medical delay: Ask your doctor/NP to sign the SCC Serious Medical Condition Certification form. Use: SCC rule page (20VAC5‑330), SCC consumer line 1‑800‑552‑7945, Your utility’s medical form page. (law.lis.virginia.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting until the shutoff day to apply: Submit a LIHEAP Crisis or Cooling application as soon as you get a final notice. Use the online portal for a timestamp and call your utility with the confirmation number. Use: VDSS EAP, CommonHelp apply, SCC complaint help. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Not asking for the medical delay: A 15‑day temporary hold plus a 30‑day formal delay can buy time to get help. Learn and use the rule. Use: SCC medical delay rule, SCC consumer line, VDSS Crisis help. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
• Missing program windows: Fuel has a short fall window. Cooling ends Aug 15. Add reminders on your phone. Use: EAP dates, LIHEAP Clearinghouse VA dates, Local DSS finder. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Skipping local charities: Community Action Agencies and county programs can fill gaps when state funds are delayed or out. Use: VACAP agencies, 211 Virginia, Arlington emergency assistance (example). (vacap.org)

Reality Check

• Expect wait times: In summer and winter, DSS lines are slammed and charity funds go fast. Bookmark the online portals and try early morning calls. Programs post fixed windows and benefit ranges every year. Use: VDSS EAP page, LIHEAP Clearinghouse VA profile, 211 Virginia alerts. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Rules matter on disconnections: If any agent ignores the heat/cold rules or the medical delay, quote the code sections and ask for a supervisor, then the SCC analyst. Use: Extreme heat/cold ban, Medical delay rule (20VAC5‑330), SCC contact. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
• Funding varies by area: Utility hardship programs open/close based on donations and season. If one fund is out, another nearby may still have dollars. Check multiple agencies and use 211 to scan options. Use: Dominion EnergyShare, Dollar Energy — VA, 211 Virginia. (dominionenergy.com)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

• Northern Virginia (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William): Try county Coordinated Services and trusted nonprofits for same‑day referrals and utility grants. Use: Fairfax Coordinated Services Planning 703‑222‑0880, Arlington Thrive (utilities help via partners), Loudoun Cares ConnectLine 703‑669‑4636. (fairfaxcounty.gov)
• Greater Richmond / Petersburg: Call United Way and DSS, and ask about DPU MetroCare. Use: United Way of Greater Richmond & Petersburg, Richmond DPU MetroCare Water, VDSS EAP. (yourunitedway.org)
• Hampton Roads / Tidewater: Ask STOP Inc., HRCAP, and Salvation Army about water H2O and electric/gas funds. Use: STOP Inc., Hampton Roads Community Action Program, H2O program. (vacap.org)
• Charlottesville / Albemarle: Contact MACAA and utility programs; for refugees/immigrants, IRC can connect to services. Use: MACAA, IRC Charlottesville, VDSS EAP. (vacap.org)
• Roanoke / Southwest / Southside: Contact TAP (Roanoke), People Inc., and regional DSS offices for energy and weatherization. Use: TAP, People Incorporated, EAP. (vacap.org)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Search by ZIP at 211 and ask for “utility assistance,” “rent and utilities,” and “faith‑based relief.” Try: 211 Virginia search, VACAP directory, SCC help line. (211virginia.org)

Resources by Region

• Arlington / Alexandria / Falls Church: Use county customer service for water/sewer issues, call CSP if you live in Fairfax, and check Washington Gas status for efficiency programs. Use: Arlington Utility Relief info, CSP Fairfax 703‑222‑0880, Washington Gas income‑qualifying program. (arlingtonva.us)
• Prince William / Manassas / Manassas Park: County DSS promotes state Cooling Assistance during summer; pair with Dominion EnergyShare or AEP funds depending on your provider. Use: PWC Cooling Assistance news, EnergyShare, AEP Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor. (pwcva.gov)
• Richmond / Henrico / Chesterfield / Petersburg: Check MetroCare Water, EnergyShare agencies, and legal help if you get a wrongful shutoff. Use: MetroCare Water, EnergyShare agencies, Legal Aid Justice Center. (rva.gov)
• Hampton Roads (Norfolk, VB, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Peninsula): Apply for H2O for water/sewer, Salvation Army for intake, and use VNG, Dominion, or AEP funds depending on your service. Use: H2O program, Salvation Army H2O intake, VNG assistance. (hamptonroads.gov)
• Shenandoah / Valley / Blue Ridge: Co‑ops often partner on weatherization; Page One administers some electric aid; check SVEC and your local CAA. Use: SVEC weatherization, SVEC energy assistance via 211 entry, VACAP agencies. (svec.coop)
• What to do if this doesn’t work: Use 211 to widen your search and call the SCC if a shutoff is imminent. Try: 211 Virginia, SCC complaint line, VDSS EAP. (211virginia.org)

Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: For safe support, youth services, and referrals that respect your family, reach out to Side by Side and ask for housing/utility navigation help. Many counties also offer confidential domestic violence and crisis lines. Try: Side by Side Richmond, Side by Side support groups, 211 Virginia (LGBTQ filter). (sidebysideva.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for large‑print applications, TTY/relay, and accessible appointments. Weatherization programs include health and safety fixes. Contact: VDDHH & Virginia Relay 711, DHCD WAP, SCC medical delay rule. (vddhh.virginia.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Ask Dominion about the extra EnergyShare voucher ($500) for veterans and contact DVS for free benefits help—never pay a “consultant.” Use: EnergyShare veteran note, Virginia Department of Veterans Services, VA MyVA411 1‑800‑698‑2411. (dominionenergy.com)
• Immigrant and refugee single moms: Ask caseworkers to help with DSS paperwork and translation. IRC and Commonwealth Catholic Charities can connect you to local benefits and language support. Use: IRC Charlottesville, Commonwealth Catholic Charities, CommonHelp. (rescue.org)
• Tribal citizens: The Monacan Indian Nation operates its own LIHEAP for eligible citizens in its service area—apply through the tribal office. Ask about weatherization and housing programs. Use: Monacan Nation LIHEAP contact (ACF listing), Monacan Nation housing & LIHEAP forms, Monacan main line 1‑434‑363‑4864. (acf.gov)
• Rural single moms with limited access: Co‑ops (REC, NOVEC, SVEC, CVEC, etc.) may offer flexible deposits, alerts, and referrals. Ask your co‑op’s member services to flag medical needs and to set outage text alerts. Use: CVEC assistance hub, NOVEC contact & problem resolution, NNEC weatherization referral. (mycvec.com)
• Single fathers: All programs here are gender‑neutral. Dads can apply for LIHEAP, PIPP, EnergyShare, and local funds. For parenting and case‑management referrals, call 211 or your county’s Coordinated Services line. Use: VDSS EAP, 211 Virginia, CSP Fairfax. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Language access: Ask for interpreters and translated forms. For TTY/CapTel and relay, use Virginia Relay 711 and VDDHH; for Medicaid/health benefits applications, Cover Virginia provides interpreter services. Use: VDDHH, CoverVA language/TTY, SCC contact (request interpreter). (vddhh.virginia.gov)

County‑ or Utility‑Specific Rules That Matter

• Dominion and Appalachian Power rate timing: New Virginia law bars rate increases for Phase I utilities (Appalachian Power) from November through February and restricts new riders in those months. This matters if you’re budgeting winter bills. Read: §56‑596.5 rate increases timing, SCC energy regulation reports, SCC PUR overview. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
• Washington Gas programs: Their Virginia income‑qualified efficiency program is paused as of May 1, 2025; check back for restarts. Plan on state LIHEAP and utility payment plans in the meantime. Use: WG program status, VDSS EAP, 211 Virginia. (wgsmartsavings.com)

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask for the denial reason in writing: Eligibility, missing documents, or late filing are common. Re‑submit with missing info within the appeal period. Use: VDSS Energy Assistance page, VDSS appeals form (ENG), Local DSS finder. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Appeal: You can appeal EAP decisions through VDSS. File quickly and keep copies of everything you submit. Use: VDSS appeals, Find Local DSS, 211 Virginia help completing forms. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Get legal help: If you’re facing a wrongful shutoff or benefit denial, contact legal aid. Try: Legal Aid Justice Center, Virginia Poverty Law Center Utility Helpline, Blue Ridge Legal Services resources. (justice4all.org)

Tables You Can Use

Program windows and quick amounts (2025)

Who to call for shutoff problems

Gas company hardship programs (high‑level)

Water programs (selected)

Accessibility and language

Real‑World Examples

• **Dominion account behind $750withshutoffin3days\ast \ast :Youcallandgeta15‑daytemporarymedicaldelaywhileyourchild’spediatriciansignstheSCCform.Yousetupa6‑monthpaymentplan,applyforEnergyShare($600 cap), and submit LIHEAP Crisis. Use: Medical delay rule, EnergyShare, EAP Crisis. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
• AEP customer with broken heat pump in January: You file a Crisis application for equipment repair (open Nov 1–Mar 15) and ask AEP for a payment arrangement. If income qualifies, you enroll in PIPP for a 10% or 6% cap going forward. Use: EAP Crisis window, AEP assistance, PIPP. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Virginia Beach renter with $400 water past due: You call the Regional Housing Crisis Hotline (for H2O referral), apply with Salvation Army, and ask your electric provider for a payment plan. Use: H2O program, Salvation Army H2O intake, Dominion payment plans. (hamptonroads.gov)

FAQ — Virginia Utility Help for Single Moms

• How fast can Crisis LIHEAP stop a shutoff: Crisis cases are prioritized; call your local DSS to flag “imminent disconnect” and give your cutoff date. While times vary, expect faster action than non‑crisis cases, especially during winter. Start here: EAP Crisis, Local DSS finder, SCC medical delay. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Can I apply if I’m not on the lease: Yes, if you’re responsible for the utility and can show bills in your name at the address. Ask DSS what proofs they’ll accept. Use: VDSS EAP, CommonHelp, Local DSS. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Do I qualify for Cooling if I’m pregnant: Pregnancy itself isn’t listed; but if there’s a child under 6 in the home, a household member with a disability, or a senior 60+, you can qualify. Confirm with DSS. Use: Cooling rules, Local DSS, LIHEAP Clearinghouse VA. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Will PIPP erase my old balance: Yes, over time. Each on‑time month eliminates 1/12 of your arrears while keeping your bill at 10% or 6% of income. Missed payments can risk removal. Use: PIPP (VDSS), SCC overview, Your utility account team. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Can utilities shut off during heat waves or freezes: No, not when predicted temps are at/above 92°F or at/below 32°F within 24 hours, and not on Fridays, weekends, or state holidays. Use: §15.2‑2121.2, SCC complaint, Medical delay rule. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
• Where do I get help if English isn’t my first language: Request an interpreter from DSS or Cover Virginia. TTY/Relay users can dial 711. Use: CoverVA language help, VDDHH & Virginia Relay, Local DSS. (coverva.dmas.virginia.gov)
• Is there help for water bills: Yes in certain localities—Richmond’s MetroCare, Hampton Roads H2O, and Virginia American Water’s H2O grants. Ask your city utility, too. Use: MetroCare, H2O, Virginia American Water H2O. (rva.gov)
• My internet discount disappeared after ACP—what now: Switch to a Lifeline plan and ask your provider for low‑income offers. Use: USAC Lifeline, FCC ACP wind‑down, SCC communications help. (usac.org)
• Who do I call if a utility breaks the rules: The SCC analyst line. They can often intervene same day. Use: SCC Public Utilities page, Complaint page, Contact numbers. (scc.virginia.gov)
• Can tribal citizens apply through their Nation: Yes—Monacan Indian Nation operates LIHEAP for eligible citizens in its region; call the tribal office to ask about current intake. Use: ACF tribal LIHEAP contact (Monacan), Monacan housing/LIHEAP, Monacan contact. (acf.gov)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español (traducción generada con herramientas de IA)

• Solicite ayuda de energía del estado (LIHEAP) ahora: Use CommonHelp o llame al 1‑855‑635‑4370 para programas de Calefacción (Fuel), Emergencia (Crisis) y Enfriamiento (Cooling). Lea: EAP Virginia, Encuentre su oficina local de DSS, 211 Virginia. (dss.virginia.gov)
• Ponga un “alto” a un corte de servicio: Pida a su compañía el retraso por “condición médica grave” (30 días) o la protección por clima extremo. Si hay problemas, llame a la Comisión Estatal (SCC) al 1‑800‑552‑7945. Use: Regla médica 20VAC5‑330, Cortes prohibidos por calor/frío, Queja SCC. (law.lis.virginia.gov)
• Fondos de emergencia de su compañía: Dominion EnergyShare, Neighbor‑to‑Neighbor (AEP), HeatShare (Columbia Gas), H2O (agua). Mire: EnergyShare, Dollar Energy — Virginia, H2O Hampton Roads. (dominionenergy.com)

Nota: Confirme fechas y montos llamando antes de aplicar; los fondos son limitados y cambian según la zona.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Virginia Department of Social Services — Energy Assistance
• CommonHelp — Apply online
• Virginia State Corporation Commission — Public Utilities
• Virginia DHCD — Weatherization Assistance
• LIHEAP Clearinghouse — Virginia profile
• Dominion Energy — EnergyShare
• Dollar Energy Fund — Virginia programs
• Virginia American Water — H2O help
• 211 Virginia

Last verified September 2025, next review January 2026. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information and is not legal advice. Program dates, amounts, and eligibility change based on funding and local policies. Always confirm current availability with your local Department of Social Services, your utility, and the State Corporation Commission before you decide. Use these official resources for the most up‑to‑date information: VDSS Energy Assistance, SCC Public Utilities, DHCD WAP. (dss.virginia.gov)

Notes on accuracy: Program amounts/dates cited above reflect the most recent postings and profiles available as of September 2025; amounts can vary by county and funding. Always call to confirm current availability before applying.

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