If you are a Philadelphia Water Department customer behind on your bills, you may be eligible for a grant from the new Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) to help pay past-due water bills.
Limited funds are available for one-time only. Payments are made directly to the Philadelphia Water Department and can help you avoid a water shut-off. These grants do not have to be paid back. The deadline to apply is August 18, 2023.
The maximum grant for drinking water assistance is $2,500. Some customers may also be eligible for up to an additional $2,500 for wastewater charges. If you received a LIHWAP grant in 2022, you are not eligible to receive another grant at this time.
Find out if you’re eligible and apply today!
Eligibility
You may qualify for LIHWAP if:
- You either rent or own your home.
- You did not receive a grant in 2022
- You have an overdue water bill that you are responsible for paying.
- Your household income meets the income guidelines below.
| Household Size | Income Limit |
| 1 | $20,385 |
| 2 | $27,465 |
| 3 | $34,545 |
| 4 | $41,625 |
| 5 | $48,705 |
| 6 | $55,785 |
| 7 | $62,865 |
| 8 | $69,945 |
| 9 | $77,025 |
| 10 | $84,105 |
How to apply
There are three ways you can apply:
Get help from a BenePhilly center
The City of Philadelphia partners with trusted community groups to run BenePhilly centers to help you apply for LIHWAP or other benefits. You may be able to apply over the phone, virtually, or make an appointment to come in for help. Find a BenePhilly center that is convenient for you.
Apply online using COMPASS, a benefits tool for Pennsylvanians
You can use COMPASS to apply for LIHWAP and other benefits available to Pennsylvania residents. This site is run by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS). You will need your COMPASS login information or you will need to create an account. If you need help using COMPASS, call the DHS helpline at 1-800-692-7462.
Apply in person at a County Assistance Office
County Assistance Offices are now open for walk-ins to help apply for LIHWAP or other programs. Find a list of all Pennsylvania County Assistance offices here.
Applications must be submitted by August 18, 2023.
What you need to apply
You will need:
- Names of people in your household.
- Dates of birth for all household members.
- Social Security numbers for all household members.
- Proof of income for all household members.
- A recent water bill.
After your application is processed, you will receive a written notice letting you know if you qualify. If you are eligible, the letter will tell you the amount of your grant.
