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Utility Assistance in West Virginia (2026)

LIHEAP, shutoff protection, no-deposit electricity, and assistance programs for West Virginia residents

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Quick Answer

Yes, West Virginia residents can get help paying utility bills through the federal LIHEAP program administered by the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Family Assistance. The average electric bill in West Virginia is $155/month. Heating assistance averages Up to $10,000 per household (FY 2026 heating benefit). No credit check, no criminal background check required.

Call 1-800-642-8589 or dial 211 to apply.

West Virginia Utility Assistance at a Glance

$155

Avg. Electric Bill/Mo

Yes

LIHEAP Available

Yes

Winter Moratorium

5

Assistance Programs

Average electric bill is the EIA 2024 residential average monthly bill for this state (Electric Sales, Revenue, and Average Price, released Oct 2025).

LIHEAP in West Virginia

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in West Virginia is administered by the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Family Assistance. LIHEAP helps low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills. There are no criminal background checks -- people with felony records, those on probation or parole, and formerly incarcerated individuals all qualify based on income alone.

Administering AgencyWest Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Family Assistance
Phone1-800-642-8589
WebsiteVisit website
Income Limit60% of State Median Income (150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines for households of 8 or more)
Heating AssistanceUp to $10,000 per household (FY 2026 heating benefit)
Cooling AssistanceCooling component up to $10,000 (combined with heating)
Crisis AssistanceWinter crisis assistance up to $2,000 (Jan 1 - Aug 30)
WeatherizationAvailable

Utility Shutoff Protections in West Virginia

West Virginia prohibits gas and electric shutoffs from December 1 through February 28 for residential customers who are unable to pay and have entered into a payment agreement with their utility.

Winter Moratorium

Yes

Medical Protection

Yes

Senior Protection

Yes

No-Deposit Electricity Options in West Virginia

Appalachian Power, FirstEnergy (Mon Power/Potomac Edison), and Mountaineer Gas offer budget billing. Deposits may be waived with proof of good credit. LIHEAP recipients often receive deposit waivers.

West Virginia Utility Assistance Programs

  • West Virginia LIHEAP
  • West Virginia Weatherization Program
  • Dollar Energy Fund (West Virginia)
  • Community Action Agencies (statewide)
  • Salvation Army utility assistance

How to Apply for Utility Assistance in West Virginia

  1. 1

    Check if You Qualify

    Your household income must be at or below 60% of State Median Income (150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines for households of 8 or more). You also qualify automatically if you receive SNAP (food stamps), SSI, TANF, or certain other benefits. There is no criminal background check. Call 211 to check eligibility.

  2. 2

    Gather Your Documents

    You will need proof of identity (state ID, driver's license), proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefit award letters), a recent utility bill, and proof of address. Social Security numbers for all household members are typically required.

  3. 3

    Contact Your Local Agency

    Apply through the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Family Assistance by calling 1-800-642-8589, visiting their website, or contacting your local Community Action Agency. You can also call 211 to find the nearest office.

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    Apply in person, by mail, or online (if available in West Virginia). Most states process applications during the heating season (October through May). Funds are limited, so apply as early as possible. Crisis assistance may be available year-round.

  5. 5

    Receive Your Benefit

    LIHEAP payments are sent directly to your utility company or fuel vendor. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks. If you have a shutoff notice, mention it -- crisis assistance can be expedited within 48 hours. Also ask about weatherization services to permanently lower your energy costs.

West Virginia Utility Commission

The West Virginia Public Service Commission regulates utilities in West Virginia. If you have a dispute with your utility company about billing, deposits, or shutoffs, you can file a complaint.

Website: West Virginia Public Service Commission

Complaint phone: 1-800-344-5113

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for LIHEAP utility assistance in West Virginia?
Contact your local Community Action Agency or call 211 to apply for LIHEAP in West Virginia. Application windows vary by state - some accept applications only during the heating season, others year-round (check your state's LIHEAP agency page above). You can also apply through your state's LIHEAP administering agency. Bring proof of income, a recent utility bill, and ID. There is no criminal background check.
Can I get help with my electric bill in West Virginia if I have a criminal record?
Yes. LIHEAP and most utility assistance programs in West Virginia do not run criminal background checks. Eligibility is based on your household income (many states use 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or 60% of State Median Income - see your state's limit above) or participation in programs like SNAP, SSI, or TANF. People with felony records, those on probation or parole, and formerly incarcerated individuals all qualify.
What is the average electric bill in West Virginia?
The average residential electric bill in West Virginia is approximately $155 per month. Your actual bill depends on usage, the size of your home, heating/cooling needs, and your utility provider. If your bill is more than 6% of your household income, you have a high energy burden and likely qualify for assistance.
Can my utilities be shut off in West Virginia during winter?
West Virginia has winter shutoff protections that restrict or prohibit utility disconnections during cold weather months. Additional protections may apply to elderly, disabled, and medically vulnerable households. Contact your utility company or the state utility commission if you receive a shutoff notice during the protected period.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal or financial advice. Program details, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts may vary and are subject to change. LIHEAP funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis in many states. Always confirm current information directly with your state agency, utility company, or local Community Action Agency. If you need immediate help, call 211 for local assistance or contact your utility company about hardship programs before your service is disconnected.

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