LIHWAP funding is no longer available, so households cannot receive new benefits through that program. But if you have a past-due water bill, shutoff notice or septic-system problem, local and federal resources may still help.
Start by calling your water utility and asking about payment plans, hardship funds, shutoff protections or referrals to local aid. Then use the resources below to find additional assistance.
Water Bill Help and Resources
| Resource | What it may provide | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Your water utility | Payment plans, hardship funds, shutoff protections or referrals to local aid | Call the customer-service number on your water bill |
| Community Action Agencies | Local nonprofit and government social-service programs, which may include utility or emergency assistance | Find a Community Action Agency |
| United Way 211 | Referrals to local food, housing, utility and emergency-assistance programs | Call 2-1-1 or visit United Way |
| Benefits.gov | A federal benefit finder for food, housing, utilities, health care and other assistance | Benefits.gov |
| LIHEAP | Help with heating and cooling bills, energy crises and some weatherization needs | LIHEAP |
| Water-bill assistance guide | Information on asking for local water-bill help | Water Assistance Resources guide |
| Well and septic help | Information on assistance for wells, septic tanks and communities | Water Assistance Resources guide |
How to Ask for Help
Contact your water company first and explain that you need help with a past-due balance or shutoff notice. Ask whether it offers a payment plan, low-income rate, hardship fund or referral to a local organization.
Then call 211 or contact a nearby Community Action Agency. Be ready to provide a recent water bill, proof of income, identification and any shutoff notice you received.
Community Action Agencies are local government and nonprofit organizations that administer social-service programs across the country. Their agency finder lets you search by ZIP code, state, county, agency name or service.
Other Assistance to Check
LIHEAP does not generally pay water bills, but it may help eligible households with heating and cooling costs. Learn more through LIHEAP.
You can also use Benefits.gov to find programs for food, housing, health care, utilities and other essential needs. If you need immediate local help, call 211.
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