Frequently Asked Questions

How do I qualify for WAFF help?

There are four main criteria to determine WAFF assistance eligibility:

Residency – an applicant must apply in the county or city of The Salvation Army office where they live including:

    • Washington, D.C.

    • Maryland counties of Calvert, Charles, Frederick, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s

    • Virginia counties of Arlington, Clarke, Fairfax, Frederick, Loudoun, or Prince William, Shenandoah and Warren or the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church and Winchester.

Emergency Situation – the home’s heating source has been disconnected, or the applicant has received a utility termination notice/notice of disconnection.

Income – household income is the primary test of eligibility.

Government Assistance – an applicant must have exhausted all recourse to existing government energy assistance programs and still be in an emergency situation.

Can I apply for WAFF help online?

Yes! As of 2025, you can apply online at https://sahelp.me/.

Is WAFF help only available to Washington Gas Customers?

Not at all. The WAFF program assists all DMV households and covers all fuel types used to heat homes: natural gas, propane, electricity, oil, coal, wood, kerosene, etc.

What paperwork do I need to provide when I apply for WAFF energy assistance?
  • A photo ID
  • A copy of your most recent utility bill
  • Proof of Income – income verification documents (e.g., recent pay stubs, Social Security, other retirement payments, disability payments, TANF benefits). Income documentation is needed for each employed individual in the household.
  • Proof of Household Size – household size documentation (e.g., lease listing household members, school records, Department of Human Services, Food Stamp document listing household members, birth certificates for minor children, etc.)
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? Do I need to apply before a certain time to make sure my application gets seen?
WAFF funds are available between January and May 31 each year. Once program funds are exhausted, the program closes until the next year.
My furnace is broken. Can I apply for WAFF funding?
Currently, WAFF does not assist with heating equipment repairs or replacements. It covers all household heating fuel sources (natural gas, electricity, propane, wood, kerosene, coal, etc.).
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?
Once you receive a notice that you are eligible for WAFF assistance, The Salvation Army will send a payment directly to your utility company or supplier.
TOP