Water bill assistance programs
The Water Department’s Tiered assistance Program (TAP) is an affordability program for low-income customers and those with special hardships to help reduce their monthly water bills.
Philadelphia Water Department also offers a 25% discount on water bills for senior customers living in Philadelphia with a total household income of $38,800 or less.
All the information to apply is here
Lifeline
Lifeline is a U.S. government program that helps many low income households pay for broadband service and internet connected devices.
You are likely eligible if your household’s income is below 135% of the Federal Poverty Line, or if you or someone you live with currently receives a government benefit like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, or other assistance programs.
Click here for more information
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is open for applications until April 4, 2025
LIHEAP is a cash and crisis grant program that helps income eligible households pay for their heating bill.
Read more about the program here and visit the Utility Assistance page to find out about other available utility bill programs.
You can apply for LIHEAP online or call for application assistance 1-866-857-7095
Eligibility:
- You must meet income guidelines
- You don’t have to be on public assistance
- You don’t need to have an unpaid heating bills
- You can rent or own your home
Here are the LIHEAP income requirements for 2024-2025:
| Household Size | Income Limit |
| 1 | $22,590 |
| 2 | $30,660 |
| 3 | $38,730 |
| 4 | $46,800 |
| 5 | $54,870 |
| 6 | $62,940 |
| 7 | $71,010 |
| 8 | $79,080 |
| 9 | $87,150 |
| 10 | $95,220 |
| For every additional person, add $8,070 |
Crisis Grants
Households experiencing a heating crisis may be eligible for additional benefits through the LIHEAP crisis program. Emergency situations include:
- Broken heating equipment or leaking lines that must be fixed or replaced
- Lack of fuel
- The main heating source or second heating source (a source that is used to operate the main heating source or used if the main heating source is not working) has been completely shut-off
- The danger of being without fuel (less than a 15 day supply)
- The danger of having utility service terminated
Facing eviction or utility shut off:
The Philly Tenant Hotline has a guide to your rights as a renter during this pandemic. You can call the hotline for legal assistance: 267-443-2500. Click here to find information and resources about eviction and utility shut-offs.
Utility Grant Program
Link to the Utility Emergency Services Fund webpage HERE
The Utility Emergency Services Fund (UESF) provides financial assistance to low income individuals and families who are facing utility terminations or who have had their utilities shut off. The Utility Grant program is designed to bring a customer’s delinquent account up to date.
How to Apply for UESF:
UESF is a privately funded grant available to income-eligible customers who are behind on their utility bills. It is offered when no other federal aid is available.
The maximum UESF grant amount is $1,500. Customers can apply for grants at designated UESF Intake Sites. Customers are eligible to apply for UESF once every two years.