Application Period for Fuel Assistance Now Open

RICHMOND, VA (October 30, 2023) - The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) is currently accepting applications for fuel assistance online and at all local departments of social services through Monday, November 13, 2023. 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 $1,822. For a household of four, the maximum gross monthly income is $3,750. Additional income guidelines are as follows:

“Keeping warm during the winter months should not be a struggle Virginia families have to face,” said VDSS Commissioner Danny Avula. “With this assistance, households will be able to dedicate their resources towards other expenses they might have while staying comfortable in their homes. Last year, we provided fuel assistance to over 113,000 Virginia households through this program and look forward to supporting families again during this enrollment period.”

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 commonhelp.virginia.gov. Applications (available in English and Spanish) 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.

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About the Virginia Department of Social Services

The Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS), one of the Commonwealth’s largest government agencies, is comprised of approximately 2,000 state staff who proudly serve alongside more than 10,000 employees of 120 local departments of social services and community action agencies to deliver critical social services to Virginia’s most vulnerable citizens. VDSS is committed to ensuring Virginians have access to the high-quality human services and resources needed to enhance their individual and collective well-being, and shape strong futures for themselves, their families and communities. The agency provides a wide range of services and resources in the areas of food and energy assistance, foster care and adoption, child support, and abuse and neglect prevention, among others. For more information, visit dss.virginia.gov.