Where to Get Help with Your Electric Bill in Virginia

Wondering where you can get help paying your electric bill in Virginia? There are actually many places you can turn for assistance! From programs like LIHEAP to small local charities, there are many places that will help you pay your electric bill when you can’t do it yourself.

Government Programs

There are some government programs that can help you pay your electric bill in Virginia, no matter where you live in the state!

Energy Assistance Program (EAP)

In Virginia, the LIHEAP program is called the Energy Assistance Program (EAP). This is a program to help families in Virginia who are having a hard time paying their electric bills. If you’re finding it tough to keep up with your energy costs, EAP could offer you some help. This program can give you money to help pay your bills, and it can also make your home more energy-efficient, which can save you money in the long run.

If you qualify, EAP can be a big help. It can cover some of your heating and cooling costs, fix or replace your heating system, and even help in emergency situations like if your power is about to be cut off.

You can usually get help once in the winter and once in the summer. Remember, applying doesn’t guarantee help, but it’s definitely worth trying if you need the support.

• Heating assistance is available from November 1 through March 15 each year.
• Cooling assistance is available in the summer from June 15 to August 15.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE: You may be eligible for EAP if you meet the income limits for your household size. If you receive SNAP, SSI, or TANF benefits then you may automatically eligible.

HOW TO APPLY: If you would like EAP to help pay your electric bill in Virginia, you can apply through the Department of Social Services. Applications are available online or in the office.

Serious Medical Condition Protection

If someone who lives with you has a serious medical condition, you may be able to stop the company from shutting off your electric service for an extra 30 days. This program is available twice in a 12-month period and you can receive it twice in a row, meaning that you could potentially delay disconnection for up to 60 days!

This does not pay your bill or get you out of the debt. It just gives you more time to pay it before your service is disconnected.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE: This protection is part of state law. Anyone who has a serious medical condition can qualify. A serious medical condition is defined as “a physical or psychiatric condition that requires medical intervention to prevent further disability, loss of function or death.”

HOW TO APPLY: You will need to download the Serious Medical Certification Form from the Virginia State Corporation Commission. Your medical provider must fill it out and send it to the utility company for you. If you have already received a shut-off notice, Virginia Legal Aid suggests that you also call the company to let them know that form is on the way so that they don’t shut you off before the letter arrives.

Weatherization Assistance Program

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) in Virginia is a great help for families wanting to save on their energy bills. This program helps make your home more energy efficient.

For example, it can help seal leaks in your house that let hot or cold air escape. It also adds insulation and can fix or update heating and cooling systems. These changes mean you use less energy to keep your home comfortable, and that saves you money.

When I received funds from the Weatherization Assistance Program, it reduced my electric bills by more than half! I know that you’re probably most interested in programs that can pay your bill right now, but please don’t forget to apply for Weatherization Assistance as well because it can make a huge difference in the comfort of your home and the cost of your monthly bill.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE: You may be eligible if your household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level OR 60% of the State Median Income for your household size. If you receive TANF or SSI, then you may be automatically eligible.

HOW TO APPLY: You will need to apply with the agency that serves your area. The agencies can be found by clicking “Find Your Local Providers” on the state’s WAP site.

Statewide Electric Bill Help

In Virginia, there are several statewide resources ready to help if you’re facing difficulty with your electric bills. Organizations like the Salvation Army offer assistance programs to those in need. They’re available almost everywhere!

Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities is another compassionate organization that steps in to help Virginia residents with their energy bills. They recognize that sometimes, life can throw a curveball, and paying for the basics like electricity can become a challenge. Catholic Charities offers energy assistance to those who find themselves in a tough spot, regardless of their background or faith.

Through their energy assistance programs, Catholic Charities can provide direct financial aid to help cover the cost of your electric bills. They can even help with emergency car repairs or rent!

If you’re facing difficulties with your energy costs, contacting Catholic Charities in Virginia is a good step. They require some details about your financial situation to determine the best way to assist you. Their goal is to ensure that you have a stable and secure environment, starting with keeping your lights on.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE: You need to live within the geographic boundaries of the Diocese you’re applying with. You also need to have a past due or shutoff notice and you’ll need to meet income guidelines. You can only receive help once per year.

HOW TO APPLY: Contact your local diocese for help. You can find the contact information by searching your zip code on the Catholic Charities website.

Salvation Army

In Virginia, the Salvation Army offers assistance to individuals and families struggling to pay their electric bills. This help is part of their mission to provide emergency support and relief to those in financial distress. They understand that keeping your home powered is essential, especially during extreme weather.

The Salvation Army administers many different types of programs that may be able to help you, including the Neighbor to Neighbor and Dollar Energy Fund for certain utility providers.

When you reach out to the Salvation Army for electric bill assistance, they’ll look at your situation to see how they can help. The aid may come through one-time financial support to cover your bill or by pointing you toward other available resources and programs that can offer longer-term assistance.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE: According to the United Way, you may be eligible for help paying your electric bill in Virginia if you have an income that is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. There may be additional requirements as well.

HOW TO APPLY: To start the process, you can contact your local Salvation Army branch. They’ll typically ask about your income, household size, and the specifics of your need.

Utility Company Programs

You may be able to get additional assistance from your utility provider as well! Select your company from the list below for more information.

• Dominion Energy
• Rappahannock Electric

Nationwide Grants & Assistance

If you’re struggling to pay your electric bill in Virginia, don’t forget to check out our nationwide list as well! We have a comprehensive list of nationwide grants and assistance programs that could give you the support you need. Check it out!

Local Electric Bill Help

If you still need help paying your electric bill in Virginia, there are small local organizations and programs that may be able to help you.

Helping Hands Ministries in Roanoke can provide assistance with utilities, rent assistance, transportation, and prescriptions as well!

Presbyterian Community Center in Roanoke provides emergency financial assistance to low income families in the area. They can help pay for rent, utilities and other necessities. They also have a food bank that can help you!

Summary

If you’re in Virginia and finding it tough to pay your electric bill, you’re not alone, and there’s support out there. This article includes a list of agencies and government programs that can help you pay your electric bill in Virginia. Contact the agencies on this list for help today!

Low Income Relief Team

This article is the product of a team effort! Multiple authors from the Low Income Relief team have contributed to this post. We have also used AI tools to organize data and refine the writing in accordance with our Responsible AI Use Policy. All articles on our website are reviewed by our founder and resident poverty expert, Nicole Thelin, prior to publication.