SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Many families across California are struggling to afford their residential water and sewage bills.
A state program offers help in paying those bills, but the deadline to apply is fast approaching.
“With energy costs going up, your water bill is going to go up as well,” said Keith Taylor, UC Davis professor of cooperative extension and community economic development.
It’s why there’s a state program to help called the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program. It’s federally funded and offers one-time support to help low-income households pay past due or current water and sewage bills to keep their water on.
“The impact is huge," said Taylor. "It keeps them from going into debt. It keeps them from having bad credit, and it allows them to get the basics...paying for their rent, paying for medication, paying for their food."
To be eligible, an individual must have a monthly income under $2,882. Renters are welcome to apply, and if you own a home, its age can play a role in utility bills.
“Especially with rural folks, with folks are in poverty, they might have homes that haven't been updated with new efficiency standards,” said Taylor.
The state says many Californians struggling to pay their water or sewage bills have already received hundreds or even thousands of dollars through the program saying, in part:
“With the deadline quickly approaching, eligible households should apply now as remaining funds are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.”
Keep in mind that although the deadline to apply has been extended, the state says benefits are not guaranteed. There are still ways to save.
Homeowners might be able to get tax credits for making their homes more efficient. Renters will likely lean more on government assistance programs like United States Department of Agriculture rural assistance.
Some utilities provide balance billing where they take the average of your monthly bills over the year and spread it out, Taylor said.
The deadline to apply for financial assistance through the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program is March 31, 2024.
Find out if you qualify HERE.
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