On Dec. 7, 2021 the state of Illinois announced the launch of a new water assistance program designed to assist low-income households experiencing economic hardship.
The new Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) will make available $42 million to help residents who are unable to pay their water and sewer bills in order to prevent having their services shut off. To be eligible, Illinois families must demonstrate that they are within 200 percent of the federal poverty line. For a family of four, this means a combined income of $54,000 or less.
LIHWAP applications will be accepted through Aug. 31, 2023, or until funds are exhausted. Eligible applicants can visit the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s website helpillinoisfamilies.com for more information on how to apply for water assistance and other programs.