Help Paying Water Bills

Access to clean water is a basic human right, yet many low-income families and individuals in the USA struggle to afford their water bills. With the rising cost of living, paying for essential expenses like water bills can be a significant financial burden, especially for those living on a limited income. Fortunately, there are several programs and resources available to help low-income households pay their water bills and avoid service disconnection. In this blog post, we will explore some of the options and guidelines for accessing water bill assistance programs in the USA and provide tips for managing water usage and reducing bills. Whether you are in need of assistance or looking to support your community, this post aims to provide valuable information and resources to make water bills more affordable and manageable for low-income individuals and families.

Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)

This program provides financial assistance for people in need to cover their sewer and water services. Low-income individuals or families who are having a hard time, particularly paying their water wills, might be receiving from this program’s benefits. Eligible persons can have monthly money support based on their total household income. The program may even pay past due bills for sewer and water services. The financial support can differ between $2,500 to $5,000 per applicant in a house. These amounts will be sent directly to the sewer or water vendors.

Eligibility Requirements:

• It would be best to display that your total income is at or under the federal poverty guideline.
• Your family size matters.
• Your total owed amount to sewer or water providers.
• You or your household must be an American citizen.
• You may be already receiving Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefits, Temporary Assistance (TA), Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone)

Necessary Documentation:

• The principal applicant should submit the proof of identity.
• The principal applicant should submit a valid social security number.
• The principal applicant should submit proof of residence.
• The principal applicant should submit an income document.
• The principal applicant should submit a sewer, water, or combined water and sewer bill listing the applicant’s primary or permanent residence.

For more information, please look at https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/programs/lihwap or make a phone call at 877 395 8930.

The American Water H2O Help to Others Program

This program was created and has been financed by the Pennsylvania American Water Company specifically for deficient and middle-income individuals and families who cannot afford their water bills. People who are going to apply for this program must show that their household income is at or under 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. In addition, qualified persons will benefit from some of the following services:

• They can receive financial support of up to $500 annually to cover their water bills.
• They can benefit from a 10% discount on their monthly volumetric charges and an 85% discount on their monthly service fee, saving a significant amount of money monthly.
• Interested participants can also join water-saving training and benefit from water-saving instruments at their homes.
• Some applicants may also receive grants up to $500 for their wastewater bills.

Local Water Company Customer Care

Many water service providers offer various campaigns, services, and discounts to their customers. Low and very low-income people and families who are not able to pay their water expenses or who want to reduce it can get in touch with their local suppliers. Besides providing discounts or helping with your past due bills, they can also offer to pay for water-saving installments or other options. Please make connections with your local water supplier.

Local Churches and Non-Governmental Organizations

There are various churches and non-profit organizations that are offering housing, rental, food, utility, and water assistance for people in need. They may prioritize low-income families, single mothers, the elderly, and children. In addition, eligible persons and families may receive monthly financial support to cover their water expenses. Some of the most known organizations are the Salvation Army, Saint Vincent De Paul, and Catholic Charities. Please get in touch with them in your local area.

EPA WaterSense

Even though this program is also a water assistance program, its primary purpose is to protect the future of the world’s water supply by supporting and promoting the market for water-saving homes, products, and professional educational programs. WaterSense is trying to save water for future generations and businesses by reducing unnecessary water use. It aims to increase awareness about water consumption. It helps its customers to benefit from water-efficient installments, products, and services. If you would like to learn more about water-smart products, please visit https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-02/documents/ws-program-guidelines.pdf or give it a call at 866 987 7367.

In addition to these, there may be various assistance programs offered by each state.