Utility Assistance/LIEAP
The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) assists eligible households with the cost of home heating through direct cash payments or payments to utility companies on their behalf. A crisis component is available for households without resources facing the loss of a heating source. Eligibility for both program components is based on a combination of factors, including income, type of heating payment, and total heating costs. For more information about the LIEAP program, contact your local Department of Human Services (DoHS) office. Click here for a list of all COUNTY OFFICES
Applications are currently being accepted for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) beginning today and will continue until funds are exhausted. This federally funded program assists eligible state residents in paying water or wastewater bills. Eligibility for LIHWAP benefits is based on income, household size and whether the household is responsible for paying water or wastewater bills. To qualify, the household must meet all program guidelines, which includes an applicant’s annual income being at or below 60 percent of the State Median Income. Face-to-face interviews in a local DoHS office are also required. The maximum allowable gross income level guidelines can be found here. 20% Discount Program
The Special Reduced Residential Service Rate Program (20% Utility Discount Program) was established by statute to assist certain eligible participants in receiving a 20% discount from their electric, gas, and/or water companies. WV American Water (WVAW) is currently the only water company participating in the program
Tel-Assistance/LIFELINE
Through Tel-Assistance/Lifeline, telephone companies offer reduced basic service to eligible low-income elderly and disabled customers.
Tel-Assistance/LIFELINE Service Fact Sheet
Mountaineer Homeowners Rescue
Utility/Internet Assistance
Utility/Internet Assistance provides funds to resolve delinquent payments for utilities and provide a one-time stipend for internet access services. Covered utilities include electric, gas, home energy, water, and sewer. Generally, homeowners must be at least one installment payment in arrears on the applicable utility. Utility assistance is limited to $2,500. Internet stipends will be limited to $300 per household
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a U.S. government program run by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program to help low-income households pay for internet service and connected devices like a laptop or tablet