Having access to clean water in your home is a basic necessity. However, for many low-income families paying the water bill each month can be a major financial challenge. If you are struggling to pay your water utility bill, the good news is that there are programs and resources that may be able to help. This guide will walk through who to contact for assistance with water bills eligibility criteria, and how the application process works.
Utility Company Programs
The first place to look for help is your local water utility company. Many utility providers offer their own financial assistance programs or payment plans for customers who are behind on bills. For example, some utilities allow you to spread payments out over several months to help manage large bills. Others offer grants or credits to qualifying low-income households.
Contact your water company’s customer service line directly and ask if they have programs to assist with paying water bills. Explain your situation and find out what options may be available. The company’s website will also typically have information on billing assistance programs they offer.
State and Federal Programs
If your utility doesn’t have an assistance program, the next step is to look into statewide and government-funded water bill aid. There are two main programs
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Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) – This temporary federal emergency program launched in 2021 provides funds to help families with water and wastewater bills. LIHWAP assistance is distributed through local community action agencies or nonprofits in each state. The maximum LIHWAP benefit amount depends on the state but is typically $500-$1000.
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State Utility Grant Programs – Some states offer additional water utility assistance on top of LIHWAP, through programs like the California Water and Wastewater Arrearage Payment Program. Benefits are paid directly to the utility company to credit customer accounts.
To apply for LIHWAP or a state program, you’ll need to submit an application with income documentation and copies of recent water bills. Contact your state LIHWAP office or State Department of Human/Social Services to learn more.
Nonprofit and Community Assistance
Along with government programs, local nonprofits and charities may offer water bill grants or payment assistance:
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United Way – In many areas, the United Way provides emergency utility assistance through their network of partners. Call 211 to be connected with United Way resources in your community.
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Churches and faith-based charities – Many churches and religious groups have funds to help congregation members or community residents who are struggling with bills.
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Salvation Army – The Salvation Army provides voucher programs for utility bills, rent, food and other necessities through local corps community centers.
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St. Vincent De Paul – This Catholic charity has chapters across the country that may help pay water bills for households facing disconnection.
When contacting an organization for help, be prepared with copies of your water bill, income verification, and any disconnection or shutoff notices. Many charities have limited budgets and can only assist a certain number of households.
Payment Plans and Conservation
If you don’t qualify for utility or state assistance programs, ask your water company about payment plan options. This allows you to pay the past due balance in installments over several months. While on the payment plan, you’ll need to keep up with ongoing monthly charges too.
You can also reduce water usage to lower costs. Simple conservation steps like taking shorter showers, fully loading the dishwasher, and fixing leaks can help slash your bill. Consider installing low-flow faucets and showerheads too.
Paying for water service is essential, but there are resources if you are struggling. Contact your utility, government assistance programs, community aid organizations, and explore payment plans. With some help, you can keep the water on without breaking your budget.
Help Paying Your Water Bill Campaign
FAQ
What is the New Mexico water assistance fund?
What is the Fresno water affordability program?
What is the Maryland water program?
What is the Colorado water assistance program?
How do I get help paying my water bill?
The assistance provided near you will be either a free government grant to pay a past due balance on a water bill or credit on your account. There is also money from the government to help pay a water deposit to turn service back on. All funds are paid directly to the water or sewer company.
Do you pay for your own water bill?
You must answer Yes to the question “Do you pay for your own water bill” in order to apply for LIHWAP. Click the Submit button to complete the Program Qualifications card questions. Click the Get Started button on the Applicant Household Details. Complete the Contact Details and Address questions.
Who can help pay water costs?
Any funds that may be available to help pay water costs from organizations such as Catholic Charities or the Salvation Army will often be for families in a crisis or people at risk, such as the elderly or households with young children. Read more on various charity organizations.
Where can I find information about water bill assistance?
This resource is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Benefits.gov: Visit www.benefits.gov to find out about other government benefit programs for which you might be eligible. See this Water Assistance Resources (PDF) guide for information on how you can ask about water bill assistance in your local area.
Who can help with a sewer or water bill?
Funds are limited, with assistance provided to low-income families, the unemployed and people with no money. While not as common, charity organizations near you including the Salvation Army, Saint Vincent DePaul, or Catholic Charities may provide financial help for a sewer or water bill in an emergency.
What is emergency water bill help?
Emergency water bill help is focused on helping senior citizens, disabled people, and low-income families with a shut off notice. Grant money, hardship programs and other resources are offered. Get details on water bill assistance programs in your state below. In some cases a full bill is paid and in other instances partial payments are made.