With shutoffs starting again this spring, now is the time to apply for assistance, including the new LIHWAP grant program.
Do you have past-due water bills that you are unable to pay?
The new Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, may provide up to $5,000 for Philadelphia Water Department customers towards delinquent water bills.
The temporary grant program began accepting applications on January 4, 2022. Customers can learn more and apply on the state’s Dept. of Human Services website or through a Compass account:
Learn More and Apply for LIHWAP
The emergency funding available through LIHWAP is part of the nation’s continued response to families experiencing financial difficulties due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Pennsylvania received approximately $43.2 million to assist families who have lost or are at risk of losing water service in their homes. LIHWAP is a temporary state grant program and is not administered by the City of Philadelphia.
Take Care of Delinquent Bills Now
Following a more than two-year pause, the Philadelphia Water Department will resume residential shutoffs for nonpayment on April 1, 2022.
Customers can avoid shutoff by:
- Enrolling in any Philadelphia Water Department customer assistance program
- Enrolling in a payment agreement by calling (215) 685-6300
- Paying the amount due
In addition to locking in lower monthly bills and avoiding shutoff, customers enrolled in the Tiered Assistance Program (TAP) can now take advantage of a Debt Forgiveness program.
You can use a single application for all water bill assistance programs, including the Senior Citizen Discount and the TAP Special Hardship program. Special Hardship is offered to those experiencing job loss, serious illness, and other difficulties.
Payment agreements with lower down-payments and extended repayment schedules may be available for customers who do not qualify for assistance.
To address unpaid bills, visit our customer assistance site or call (215) 685-6300 now to request a payment agreement:
