Utility & Bills Help

How to Get Help Paying Water and Gas Bills

Millions of American households are facing a difficult choice: pay a utility bill or put food on the table. But help is available — and in many cases, fast. Whether you are worried about your gas bill looming, or your water service might be cut off, there are real federal and state programs you can apply to today for assistance.

What relief is currently available (and what isn’t)

Energy bills (gas, electricity)

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) remains the primary federal program helping eligible households pay home energy bills: heating, cooling, and related costs. Administration for Children and Families+1

LIHEAP is administered by the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Administration for Children and Families
A national eligibility tool is available to check whether you qualify. liheapch.acf.gov
Applications, rules and deadlines vary by state. For example: In Illinois the 2026 application period begins October 1 for certain prioritized households and income limits are capped at 60% of state-median income. DCEO
According to the federal overview, you may qualify if you are responsible for your heating/cooling costs and your income and household size fall under state thresholds. floridajobs.org+1

Water and wastewater bills

Many people assume there is a permanent national program helping with water bills — but that’s no longer the case.

The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) was established to help low-income households with water and wastewater bills. Administration for Children and Families+1
However, the official ACF site states: “Funding is no longer available for LIHWAP. Households cannot receive LIHWAP benefits at this time.” Administration for Children and Families
Multiple states confirm the program has closed to new applications (e.g., Maryland: ended March 31, 2024). Maryland Department of Human Services
A bill (H.R. 4733) was introduced July 23 2026 to re-establish LIHWAP permanently. ASDWA

Local & utility-based assistance

Many state or local utility providers, non-profits and community agencies maintain programs of their own. For example: You can call 2-1-1 or visit the United Way website to find utility bill assistance near you. 211.org
Some utilities offer installment plans, budget billing, or hardship discounts. amwater.com

What to check: Am I eligible?

Key criteria for LIHEAP

Your household income must fall under your state’s specific threshold. For instance, Florida’s LIHEAP program sets a maximum of 60% of state median income or 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. floridajobs.org
You must be responsible for the energy/heating or cooling bills (or related costs) in your household. dfcs.georgia.gov
Most programs prioritise vulnerable households: seniors, people with disabilities, households with young children, or households facing crisis disconnection. mdhs.ms.gov+1

Important caveats for water bill relief

Since LIHWAP funding is currently unavailable, you cannot rely on it at present. You’ll need to seek alternative water-bill help: local utilities, state programs, community agencies.
Confirm the utility provider participates in whatever local program exists (some require enrollment by specific water/waste providers). lihwap.us

Step-by-step: How to secure help right now

Gather your information: utility bill (gas/electric), water/sewer bill (if applicable), proof of income (last 30 days or year), dependent list, household size, identity documents.
Locate your state’s LIHEAP office: Visit the national tool (link provided below) or search: “your state LIHEAP application”.
Check application dates: Some states open year-round; others give priority opening to older adults or crisis households. For example, Illinois opens Oct 1 2026 for certain groups. DCEO
Complete the application: Many states allow online filing; some require in-person or via community action agencies. You’ll need your utility account number.
Ask about utility payment plans: While awaiting relief, call your provider. Ask if you qualify for budget billing, hardship discounts, or deferred payment plans. Many utilities partner with community agencies. 211.org
Explore local water bill assistance: If you’re struggling with water or sewer bills, contact your utility or local social services. Even though LIHWAP is closed, there may be emergency funds or charity-based relief in your area.
Follow up & save documentation: After submission, ask for a tracking ID or confirmation. Keep copies of all utility bills and correspondence in case you get asked later.

Why this matters — and why time is critical

The cost of living is rising: energy bills (gas, electricity) and water/sewer rates are increasing faster than inflation in many places. When a household spends a high proportion of income on utilities, it threatens not only comfort but health and housing stability.

For families facing disconnection or shut-off, immediate action is essential. Because although the national water-bill program ended, energy assistance remains active — but funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis in many states. And utilities often require proof you are taking action (applying for help) to delay disconnection.

Closing note: Don’t wait until disconnection becomes a crisis

If you are reading this because your water or gas bill is overdue, urgent action can make a difference. Applying now to the energy-bill program or speaking with your utility may stop a shut-off or disconnection. Even though the federal water bill help program is not currently open, alternative relief sources exist — and community agencies can open doors. You are not alone, and there is help.