Help Paying Your Water Bill in 2026 (LIHWAP and More)
2026 update: Federal LIHWAP (Low Income Household Water Assistance Program) funding has ended, so LIHWAP water-bill benefits are no longer available in most areas. For water-bill help now, contact your water utility about hardship or payment-plan programs, check for any state or local water-assistance program, and dial 2-1-1. This page is kept for reference.
- Water bill help comes from LIHWAP and local utility programs.
- Qualify by income; getting SNAP, TANF, or SSI often helps.
- Bring ID, income proof, and a recent water bill.
- Tell the agency right away if you have a shutoff notice.
If you are behind on your water or sewer bill, help is available. The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) and local programs can pay part of your bill and help prevent a shutoff. Here is how to get help in 2026.
Who is eligible
Eligibility is based mainly on household income and size, and each area sets its own limit. You may qualify more easily if your household already gets SNAP, TANF, or SSI. Households facing a shutoff or with a young child, older adult, or person with a disability are often prioritized.
Documents you need
- Photo ID for the applicant.
- Proof of income for the last 30 days (pay stubs or benefit letters).
- A recent water/sewer bill with your account number.
- Proof of address, and a shutoff notice if you have one.
How to apply
- Find your local program by calling 2-1-1 or checking your state or water utility’s website.
- Apply online, by mail, or in person, and submit your documents.
- Benefits are usually paid directly to your water company as a credit.
Applying is free.
If a shutoff is coming
Tell the agency immediately that you have a disconnection notice – crisis cases are handled faster. Also read how to stop a utility shutoff and see other utility assistance options.
Stack other help
Many households that get water help also qualify for LIHEAP for heating and cooling, emergency rental assistance, and emergency cash assistance.
Ask about a payment plan
Even if assistance funds are limited, most water utilities will set up a payment plan that spreads what you owe over several months and stops a shutoff while you pay. Ask about budget billing to smooth out seasonal spikes, and about any leak-forgiveness or senior/disability discounts. Get the plan in writing so you are protected if there is a billing dispute later.
Official source
Learn about water assistance through the federal Office of Community Services at acf.hhs.gov and dial 2-1-1 for local programs. Applying is free.
Frequently asked questions
Is LIHWAP still available?
LIHWAP funding varies by state and year. Even where it has wound down, many states and water utilities run their own assistance and payment-plan programs – call 2-1-1 to find yours.
Can renters get water bill help?
Often yes, especially if water is billed to you. If it is included in rent, ask your local agency how your state handles it.
How fast is help with a shutoff?
Crisis applications are prioritized and can be decided within days. Bring your shutoff notice and apply immediately.
What to Do Next
Ready to act? Applying, checking status, and getting help are free through the official agency – you never pay a third party. Gather what you need, apply or respond early, and keep copies of everything you submit.
See also: help with a past-due electric bill.