If you need help paying your water bill, several options exist at the federal, state, and local level. The federal Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) provided direct bill payment assistance to qualifying low income households, but federal funding for LIHWAP has ended as of 2024. However, many states continue to operate their own water assistance programs, and local utilities, nonprofits, and community organizations still offer help. You can check your eligibility for multiple assistance programs in just a few minutes.
What Was LIHWAP and Is It Still Available?
The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) was a federal program created in 2021 under the Consolidated Appropriations Act. It provided grants to all 50 states, U.S. territories, and tribal organizations to help low income households pay their drinking water and wastewater bills.
Important: Federal LIHWAP funding is no longer available. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (ACF) confirmed that households cannot receive LIHWAP benefits at this time. The program distributed its allocated funds and has not been reauthorized by Congress.
While LIHWAP existed, it typically served households at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level, though each state set its own income thresholds (some went up to 60% of state median income).
What Programs Can Help Me Pay My Water Bill Now?
Even without LIHWAP, multiple resources can help with water and sewer bills:
| Program Type | Who Runs It | How to Access |
|---|---|---|
| State water assistance programs | State agencies | Contact your state's Department of Social Services or equivalent |
| Utility hardship funds | Local water utilities | Call the number on your water bill |
| Community Action Agencies (CAAs) | Local nonprofits | Find yours at communityactionpartnership.com |
| United Way 211 | National nonprofit network | Dial 2-1-1 or visit unitedway.org |
| Salvation Army | National nonprofit | Contact your local chapter |
| St. Vincent de Paul | National nonprofit | Contact your local chapter |
| LIHEAP (energy, not water) | Federal/state | Apply through your state LIHEAP office |
| Customer Assistance Programs (CAPs) | Local water utilities | Ask your utility about discount rates |
Which States Still Have Water Bill Assistance Programs?
Many states created or expanded water assistance programs using LIHWAP funds and have continued some form of assistance using state or local funding. Programs vary significantly by state. Here are examples of states with notable water assistance programs:
| State | Program Name | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| California | California Water and Wastewater Arrearage Payment Program; Low Income Rate Assistance | Ongoing rate discounts for qualifying customers |
| New York | Home Energy Assistance Program (includes water in some counties) | Apply through local Department of Social Services |
| Pennsylvania | Utility assistance through Community Action Agencies | Contact your local CAA |
| New Jersey | Universal Service Fund for water utilities | Income-based bill credits |
| Michigan | State Emergency Relief (SER) | Can cover water shutoff prevention |
| Illinois | Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (state funded) | Apply through local CEDA or CAA offices |
| Ohio | Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP Plus) | Caps water bills at a percentage of income for qualifying households |
Note: State programs change frequently. Contact your state or local social services agency for the most current information, or use our free screening tool to check what programs you may qualify for.
What Are the Income Limits for Water Bill Assistance?
Income limits vary by program and location. Most water assistance programs use the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) as a baseline. Below are the 2025 Federal Poverty Level guidelines, which most programs reference:
| Household Size | 100% FPL | 150% FPL | 200% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,650 | $23,475 | $31,300 |
| 2 | $21,150 | $31,725 | $42,300 |
| 3 | $26,650 | $39,975 | $53,300 |
| 4 | $32,150 | $48,225 | $64,300 |
| 5 | $37,650 | $56,475 | $75,300 |
| 6 | $43,150 | $64,725 | $86,300 |
Note: These are approximate 2025 FPL figures based on HHS guidelines. Actual thresholds for your area may differ. Check with your local assistance office for current eligibility limits.
Most utility customer assistance programs and nonprofit organizations set their income limits between 150% and 200% of FPL. Some programs also consider factors like:
- Whether you have received a shutoff notice
- Whether you have past due balances (arrearages)
- Whether anyone in the household is elderly, disabled, or a young child
- Your total household expenses relative to income
How Do I Apply for Water Bill Assistance? Step by Step
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Before applying, collect the following:
- A recent water or sewer bill showing your account number and balance
- Proof of household income (pay stubs, tax return, benefits letters)
- Photo ID for all adult household members
- Proof of address (lease, mortgage statement, or utility bill)
- Social Security numbers for household members (some programs require this)
- Any shutoff or past due notices you have received
Step 2: Identify Available Programs
- Call 2-1-1: United Way's helpline connects you with local assistance programs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Contact your water utility: Ask about hardship programs, payment plans, or customer assistance programs
- Find your local Community Action Agency: Visit communityactionpartnership.com/find-a-cap
- Use our screening tool: Check your eligibility for multiple programs at once
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Most programs accept applications:
- In person at local social services offices or CAA locations
- By phone through 2-1-1 or your utility's customer service line
- Online through your state's benefits portal (availability varies)
Step 4: Follow Up
Processing times range from a few days to several weeks depending on the program. If you have an urgent shutoff notice, mention this when you apply, as many programs offer expedited processing for emergencies.
What If I Am Facing a Water Shutoff?
If you have received a shutoff notice, take these steps immediately:
- Call your water utility and ask about payment arrangements or hardship deferrals. Many utilities are required by state law to offer payment plans before disconnection.
- Contact 2-1-1 for emergency assistance referrals in your area.
- Know your rights: Many states prohibit water shutoffs during extreme weather, for households with medical needs, or for households with young children. Check your state's consumer protection rules.
- Apply for emergency assistance: Programs like the Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul, and local churches often provide one-time emergency bill payments.
- Contact your local Community Action Agency: They can often intervene with utilities and connect you with emergency funds.
Can I Get a Discount on My Monthly Water Bill?
Yes, many water utilities offer ongoing rate reduction programs for qualifying customers. These are sometimes called Customer Assistance Programs (CAPs), lifeline rates, or low income discount programs. Common features include:
- Percentage discounts of 15% to 50% off your monthly bill
- Fixed rate caps that limit your bill to a set amount
- Arrearage forgiveness that reduces or eliminates past due balances over time
- Free or reduced cost water efficiency upgrades (low flow fixtures, leak repairs)
Contact your local water utility directly and ask about discount programs for low income customers. You may need to provide proof of income or enrollment in another assistance program like SNAP or Medicaid to qualify.
What Other Benefits Might I Qualify For?
If you are struggling to pay your water bill, you may also qualify for other assistance programs that can free up money in your budget:
- SNAP (food assistance): Reduces grocery costs
- LIHEAP (energy assistance): Helps with heating and cooling bills
- Lifeline (phone/internet discount): Reduces communication costs
- Medicaid: Free or low cost health coverage
- EITC (Earned Income Tax Credit): Tax refund for working families
Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for all of these programs in about two minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for water bill assistance?
Most water bill assistance programs serve households with incomes at or below 150% to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Priority is often given to households facing shutoff, those with elderly or disabled members, and families with young children. Eligibility varies by program and location.
How much assistance can I receive?
Assistance amounts vary widely. When LIHWAP was active, average benefits ranged from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 depending on the state and the household's need. Current state and local programs may offer one-time payments, ongoing monthly discounts, or arrearage forgiveness. Contact your local program for specific benefit amounts.
Can undocumented immigrants get water bill assistance?
Some local programs and nonprofit organizations do not require proof of citizenship or immigration status. Community Action Agencies, churches, and charitable organizations are more likely to assist regardless of immigration status. Contact 2-1-1 to find programs in your area that may help.
How long does it take to get approved?
Processing times range from a few days for emergency situations to several weeks for standard applications. If you are facing an imminent shutoff, let the program know when you apply so they can prioritize your case.
Can I get help with both water and sewer bills?
Yes. Most water assistance programs cover both drinking water and wastewater (sewer) charges, since these typically appear on the same bill. When LIHWAP existed, it explicitly covered both water and wastewater services.
What if there is no assistance program in my area?
If you cannot find a dedicated water assistance program, try these alternatives:
- Ask your water utility about internal hardship or payment plan options
- Contact local churches, temples, or mosques that may have benevolence funds
- Reach out to community foundations in your county
- Check if your state has a general emergency assistance program that covers utilities
- Screen for other benefit programs that could reduce your overall expenses
Key Takeaways
- Federal LIHWAP funding has ended, but many states and localities continue water assistance programs
- Call 2-1-1 as your first step to find local water bill help
- Most programs serve households at or below 150% to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Your water utility likely offers payment plans or hardship programs even if no government assistance is available
- Check your eligibility for multiple assistance programs to maximize the help you receive
