Utility Assistance Resources in Virginia
Last updated September 7, 2026
If you're struggling to pay your electric, gas, or water bill in Virginia, you're not alone — and real help is available. The federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), administered in Virginia by the Department of Social Services (VDSS), provides heating and cooling assistance to income-eligible households. Applications are typically accepted seasonally, so reaching out early is important, especially before winter or during summer heat emergencies.
The fastest way to find utility help near you is to call or text 2-1-1, Virginia's free statewide helpline operated by United Way. Trained specialists are available 24/7 and can connect you with LIHEAP, local emergency utility funds, weatherization programs, and utility company assistance plans — all based on your zip code and situation.
Many Virginia utility companies, including Dominion Energy and Appalachian Power, offer their own customer assistance programs for low-income households. These programs can reduce monthly bills, forgive past-due balances, or provide budget billing options. A 2-1-1 specialist or your local Department of Social Services office can help you navigate all available options at once.
Key programs in Virginia
LIHEAP – Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (Virginia)
Helps income-eligible Virginia households pay heating and cooling costs, including electric, gas, propane, and oil bills. Emergency benefits may also be available when service is at risk of disconnection.
How to access: Apply through your local Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) office. You can find your local office at dss.virginia.gov or call 2-1-1 to be connected. Applications are typically accepted in the fall for heating season; check VDSS for current open enrollment dates.
2-1-1 Virginia (United Way)
A free, confidential statewide helpline that connects callers to utility assistance, emergency funds, food, housing, and other social services based on their specific location and needs.
How to access: Call or text 2-1-1 from anywhere in Virginia, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also search for resources online at virginia211.org. Interpreters are available for non-English speakers.
Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) – Local Offices
Administers LIHEAP and may connect residents to other state and federally funded utility and energy assistance programs, as well as SNAP, Medicaid, and other benefits that can free up household income for utility costs.
How to access: Find your local VDSS office at dss.virginia.gov or by calling 2-1-1. Many offices accept walk-ins and phone inquiries; some services are available online through CommonHelp at commonhelp.virginia.gov.
Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) – Virginia
Provides free home energy efficiency improvements — such as insulation, window sealing, and furnace repairs — to income-eligible households, permanently reducing monthly utility costs.
How to access: Administered through VDSS and delivered locally by community action agencies across Virginia. Call 2-1-1 or contact your local community action agency to apply. Income guidelines generally align with LIHEAP eligibility.
Utility Company Customer Assistance Programs
Major Virginia utilities such as Dominion Energy Virginia and Appalachian Power offer income-based rate discounts, payment plans, arrearage management, and emergency assistance funds for customers facing disconnection.
How to access: Contact your utility provider directly and ask about low-income or customer assistance programs. You can also ask a 2-1-1 specialist to help identify which programs your provider offers and how to apply.
Utility Assistance resources for Virginia
Other resources in Virginia
- Housing Assistance in Virginia
- Food Assistance in Virginia
- Transportation Assistance in Virginia
- Funeral & End-of-Life Assistance in Virginia
- Mental Health Resources in Virginia
- Domestic Violence Resources in Virginia
- Disability Resources in Virginia
- Veteran Resources in Virginia
- Child & Family Assistance in Virginia
- Senior Resources in Virginia