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Need help with utility bills? Now is the time to act

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virginia-newThe application period for Virginia residents seeking financial assistance on their utility bills under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program for the 2015-2016 heating season opened on Tuesday and continues through Friday, Nov. 13.

The Virginia Department of Social Services administers the federally-funded LIHEAP program through the Virginia Energy Assistance program. During this four week period, eligible consumers can make applications at their local Department of Social Services office.  The income levels used to determine eligibility are listed below.

“We encourage customers needing assistance to act now and go to their local social services office to apply for energy assistance,” said Brent Archer, president of Columbia Gas of Virginia. “Last winter, nearly 3,300 Columbia Gas customers benefited from energy assistance”

In addition, customers are encouraged to use programs from CGV’s WarmWise energy efficiency program which offers free energy saving materials, conservation tips and rebates that help consumers reduce their energy bills.

To learn about eligibility requirements go to www.dss.virginia.gov or call 2-1-1. Columbia Gas of Virginia customers can also call its Energy Assistance Hotline at 1.800.272.2714 for assistance support or log on to www.columbiagasva.com to find the local Department of Social Services offices serving their community.

Learn more about WarmWise at WarmWiseVA.com.

 

2015-2016 Virginia Fuel Assistance Eligibility Criteria

Must be at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines.

Family Size Monthly Income Annual Income
1 $1,276 $15,301
2 $1,726 $20,709
3 $2,177 $26,117
4 $2,628 $31,525
5 $3,078 $36,933
Families of more than (5) add $450/monthly or $5,408/year for each additional family member. The Fuel Assistance Program in Virginia is based on need.

For more information on bill payment options, energy assistance and other information please go to www.columbiagasva.com, click on Manage Your Account or call Columbia Gas of Virginia’s Customer Contact Center at 1.800.543.8911.

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