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VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT
OF SOCIAL SERVICES ENERGY ASSISTANCE
06/16 VOLUME IX, CHAPTER J, PAGE 8 2) Assistance can be received more than once during the program year. However, before such assistance is approved, the LDSS must review the case file to determine that there is no current 30 day service guarantee still in effect. Maximum benefit amount for Central Air or Heat Pump repairs is $300. Note: The EAP does not pay for repairs to window air conditioners. d. Security Deposits (Code D) A once-per-lifetime payment per household related to the operation of the cooling equipment is allowed. If the household has received an electric security deposit through the EAP previously, the household is not eligible for one under the Cooling Assistance component.
1) A household is eligible for a security deposit if:
a) The service address on the account is the same as the applicants service address; and
b) The household has never been assisted by the EAP with the type of security deposit requested; and
c) Payment by another agency or the household of the difference between the deposit and the Cooling Assistance maximum has been verified, documented in the case record and entered into the system; and
d) The utility has been disconnected and cannot be turned on unless a security deposit is paid, or there is a utility disconnect notice because of non-payment of the security deposit (a copy of a disconnection notice for delinquent or new security deposit is required). Verbal authorizations should be given when (1) the household has a disconnection notice that is scheduled to occur within five days; or (2) the electricity has been disconnected and the utility requires verification that the bill will be paid before service is reconnected and the case has been approved in the EAP Cooling Assistance system; or
e) The household has applied for the service and payment of the security deposit is required prior to connection (written verification is required).
2) Since assistance is restricted, the deposit stays with the household member/case name, regardless of where the individual resides.
Authorize the actual amount of the unpaid security deposit or the balance (total verified unpaid amount not just an installment) of the deposit not to exceed $200.
TRANSMITTAL #16-1