LIHEAP in West Virginia
LIHEAP is a program subsidized by the federal government that provides energy assistance to states, who in turn distribute funds to families as well as individuals. The amount of funding provided to individuals and families is based upon the income guideline established by the federal government. In West Virginia, residents can apply for LIHEAP services at your local utility company. The utility companies that offer LIHEAP assistance in West Virginia include Allegheny Power and Dominion Hope. In the state of West Virginia, approximately 77,114 receive assistance, as of 2011.
West Virginia LIHEAP Assistance
When residents want to apply for West Virginia LIHEAP Assistance, you can contact the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or LIHEAP Administering Agencies. With such a small window to receive benefits, residents should apply for funding as early as possible.
When you want to apply for West Virginia LIHEAP Assistance, you will need to submit an application to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and await approval. When your application is approved, you will receive approximately $500 that is used toward your heating expenses. In the event you need additional LIHEAP assistance, check with your local utility provider. The utility companies that provide assistance include:
- Allegheny Power
- Dominion Hope
LIHEAP Application & How to Apply
LIHEAP in West Virginia allows residents to submit applications throughout the course of the year. When you apply and subsequently are approved for funds, you will receive LIHEAP assistance from January 17 to January 27. West Virginia LIHEAP does not offer crisis assistance programs.
You can either apply for benefits through the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources or a sponsoring utility company. The contact number for the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources is 1-800-642-8589. The department can also provide additional agencies that provide LIHEAP assistance in West Virginia.
LIHEAP Eligibility – Am I Eligible?
Families and individuals that seek LIHEAP assistance in West Virginia are required to meet or exceed income guidelines as set forth by the federal government. Family an individual income levels must be at 130% of the federal poverty level in order to receive benefits. The federal guidelines, as of 2011, are:
| Family Size | 130% of Federal Poverty Level |
| 1 | $14,157 |
| 2 | $19,123 |
| 3 | $24,089 |
| 4 | $29,055 |
| 5 | $34,021 |
| 6 | $38,987 |
| 7 | $43,953 |
| 8 | $48,919 |
Families comprised of more than eight members must add an additional $4,966 for each member. The family must continue to be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level.
