warmth Starts Here
Thank you for visiting the award-winning Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF).
Do you live in the DMV or surrounding areas and need help with your natural gas heating bill? Have your utilities been disconnected, or have you received a disconnection warning? Have you already applied for LIHEAP assistance in your state?
You've come to the right place! WAFF is now accepting applications. Please read the instructions below and click APPLY NOW.
WAFF Eligibility guidelines
Please read these instructions before you apply for WAFF.
- You must apply for LIHEAP assistance in your state before applying for WAFF.
- You must upload an official LIHEAP letter of acceptance or denial. Items such as screenshots will not be accepted. Sample LIHEAP acceptance letter
- WAFF assists with natural gas home heating (not electricity or other fuel sources).
- Your home's natural gas heat must be disconnected, or you must have a disconnection warning.
- Your total past-due bill must be $500 or less after applying any aid you have received, including any aid programs offered directly by your natural gas utility. Contact your natural gas utility for information on any such programs.
- You must upload proof of current ID and income sources.
- If you report zero income, download the Zero Income Form and have it notarized before applying.
- You must live in one of the following areas:
- District of Columbia
- Maryland: City of Baltimore, Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Calvert County, Charles County, Frederick County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Prince George's County
- Virginia: City of Alexandria, City of Fairfax, City of Falls Church, City of Manassas, City of Manassas Park, City of Winchester, Arlington County, Clarke County, Fairfax County, Fauquier County, Frederick County, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Stafford County, Warren County
CURRENT income guidelines
| Household Size | Household Annual Gross Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $91,800 |
| 2 | $104,900 |
| 3 | $118,000 |
| 4 | $131,100 |
| 5 | $141,600 |
| 6 | $152,100 |
| 7 | $162,600 |
| 8 | $173,100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for WAFF asssitance?
The WAFF program assists DMV-area households that meet the criteria listed above. If you heat your home with natural gas, you can apply for WAFF!
Is there a limit on how many times I can get WAFF assistance?
Recipients can apply once per program year (January through May).
Does WAFF ever run out of funds?
WAFF funds are available between January and May each year. Once program funds are exhausted, the program closes until the next year. It's best to apply as early as possible.
My furnace is broken. Can I apply for WAFF funding?
Currently, WAFF does not assist with heating equipment repairs or replacements. It provides assistance with past-due natural gas heating bills.
Can I apply for WAFF assistance before applying for other energy assistance programs?
You must provide proof that you have exhausted all other government energy assistance program aid and are still in an emergency heating situation. You are then eligible to apply for WAFF assistance, provided you have met all eligibility requirements.
Will I receive a check directly for WAFF assistance?
If you receive WAFF assistance, we will issue payment directly to your natural gas utility provider in your name.