If your electricity or gas have been disconnected, click here.

Does energy assistance pay my entire bill each month?

• No, the energy program is designed to help with your heating/cooling costs. It is not intended to pay the entire cost of your bill. If you are applying for help, you should continue to pay on your bill. If your household is determined eligible, payments are made directly to the utility company or the fuel vendor on your behalf.

How much of my energy bill can you help me with? What is the average award?

• Awards are usually between $49-$1,300. The average award is about $400.

How do I know if I qualify?

• Eligibility for assistance is based on your annual gross income and the size of your household. You must provide proof of income and assets for all household members live with you, for ninety-days prior to the application date. If you have natural gas or electric heat, you must bring the bill (or a copy). The bill must be in your name or the name of someone in your household.

What if I can't find my bills?

• We can contact the utility companies directly to obtain your account info. However, this process takes much more time. It is easier and faster to serve you if you bring your bills with you.

When and how can I make an appointment?

• You must make an appointment by calling 311. Appointments are available from 8:30 a.m to 3 p.m. (except at noon). We ask that you arrive to your appointment 10 minutes early and with all necessary documentation (listed below).

How long does it take for my application to be processed?

• For regular assistance, applications generally take 2 to 4 business days to be processed.

What do I need to bring with me to my appointment?

• Bring all of the following:
  • Recent copies of your utility bills.
  • A recent payroll stub or other proof that shows your current gross income for the last 30 days and is valid within the last 90 days.
  • Documentation showing income from Social Security, Unemployment Insurance, Pension Funds, disability, etc.
  • Final utility disconnection notice (if you've received a shut-off notice from your energy company).
  • Proof of present address (ex., rent receipt, lease or deed, property tax bill).
  • Proof of total members living in your household (ex., birth certificates, school records, etc.).
  • Social Security cards (or documents with SSN number such as a paystub or birth certificate) for all persons living in your household.
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence.
  • Valid photo identification.

How many times a year can I receive assistance?

• We provide two types of assistance, regular and emergency assistance. We will provide regular energy assistance only once from September 2008-October 2009, UNLESS you have received a disconnect notice or if your service has been disconnected. In this case, we may be able to assist you if you're eligible.

How do I apply for emergency energy assistance? I have received a disconnection notice for electric or gas or my services have been cut off.

• If you have already received emergency assistance once this year, you are not eligible to receive it again. Emergency assistance is available to District residents who have received a disconnection notice for electric or gas service, or are currently disconnected. Assistance is also available to residents without home heating oil. The amount of assistance is based on household size, total household income, heating source, and type of dwelling. If your services have NOT been disconnected or you have NOT received a disconnect notice, you may not walk in and must call 311 to make an appointment.

What documentation do I need to bring for emergency assistance?

• Bring your disconnection notice, most recent utility bills (or copies), government ID, and proof of income for everyone in your home who receives income.

What if I can't find my bills?

• We can contact the utility companies directly to obtain your account info. However, this process takes much more time. It is easier and faster to serve you if you bring your bills with you.

What is the largest award I could receive, and how many times can I receive emergency assistance?

• The amount you may receive depends on your eligibility. The most you can receive for emergency assistance is $600. You can only apply for emergency assistance once between September 2008-October 2009.

What if I've already received regular utility assistance once and emergency assistance once, but my electricity has been disconnected or is pending disconnection? Where can I go for help?

• The Salvation Army may be able to provide assistance at (202) 332-5000. We also have a list of emergency assistance providers based on which ward you live in. The programs all have different eligibility requirements, so you should call them to determine if they can assist you. You may also be eligible to apply for discounted monthly service for electricity, gas, water, and Verizon telephone service using our same application form.

Does bill have to be listed in my name?

• You must show that you are responsible for your home energy costs by providing a current bill or a copy of a bill. The bill must be in your name, or the name of a member of your household.

I don't have a utility bill because my electricity or heat is included in my rent. May I still apply for energy assistance?

• Even if you do not have any energy bills because electricity or gas costs are included in your rent payment, you may be eligible for a one-time payment made directly to you. You will need to submit a copy of a rent receipt or a copy of your lease along with your completed application. Upon approval, a check will be mailed to you in approximately 30 days.

I have a red tag on my water heater or furnace. What should I do?

• Bring in your red tag to the DDOE Energy Office, 2000 14th St., NW, Third Floor. No appointment is necessary. You must fill out an energy assistance application. Call (202)673-6700 for more information.