Help with heating costs is available through Nov. 13. Photo: Dan LeFebvre / Unsplash
As the weather turns colder, Prince William County residents who need help paying for heat have two places to start: a state energy assistance program that helps with heating bills, and a weatherization program that makes homes cheaper to heat and cool.
Assistance with heating bills
The county Department of Social Services (DSS) is accepting applications for the Virginia Energy Assistance Program, which helps eligible low-income households pay part of their home heating costs. The program covers electricity, natural gas, oil, kerosene, coal and wood.
Applications must be submitted by Friday, Nov. 13.
To qualify, a household must have a heating expense and a gross monthly income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Income limits vary by household size.
“Residents who are unsure whether they qualify are encouraged to apply so DSS can determine eligibility,” said DSS Human Services Manager Jennifer Norris.
After an application is submitted, DSS reviews the household’s information and required documentation. Approved payments are generally made directly to the heating provider on the household’s behalf, Norris said. Benefits are determined and vendor authorizations are issued in December. The aid is supplemental and is not meant to cover a household’s entire heating costs for the season.
How to apply
Online: CommonHelp
By phone: 1-855-635-4370, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
On paper: Pick up and return completed applications at 7987 Ashton Ave., Suite 200, in Manassas, or 15941 Donald Curtis Dr., Suite 180, in Woodbridge.
For local questions or help applying, call DSS at 703-792-7500.
No-cost home improvements
Residents may also qualify for free upgrades that reduce energy use and improve a home’s comfort, health and safety.
The county’s Office of Sustainability works with the nonprofit Community Housing Partners (CHP) Energy Solutions to connect residents with weatherization and energy-efficiency programs. CHP is the local weatherization provider for Prince William County and offers no-cost energy audits and weatherization assistance to qualifying residents.
The process starts with an assessment of the home’s energy use and needs. Depending on the home and the program, improvements may include insulation, air sealing, energy-efficient lighting, and heating and cooling system repairs or upgrades.
“Helping residents make their homes more energy efficient can have a lasting impact on both their monthly energy costs and their quality of life,” said Giulia Manno, director of the Prince William County Office of Sustainability. “Through our work with Community Housing Partners, we’re helping connect eligible residents with improvements that can make their homes safer, more comfortable and more affordable to heat and cool.”
As of 2025, nearly 300 Prince William County households have received assistance through CHP. Both homeowners and renters may qualify, depending on household income, age and the specific program. To learn more or see if you qualify, call CHP Energy Solutions at 888-229-3714 or visit the CHP Energy Solutions website.
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