Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)

The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a temporary federal program to assist eligible households in paying for drinking water and sewer services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Assistance payments are applied directly to a qualified customer's water account.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Have a total gross income at or below 60% of the State Median Income Guidelines for Georgia
  • Be responsible for paying the cost of water for the household or be able to verify a water burden
  • Be a US citizen or lawfully admitted immigrant

Apply for LIHWAP

A household's eligibility is determined locally by Ninth District Opportunity (NDO) Community Action Agency. Customers must email the NDO at clarke@ndocsbg.org to schedule an appointment to complete a LIHWAP application in person. The following documents are required to complete the application:

  • Proof of income for all individuals age 18 or older living in the home for the past 30 days
  • Social Security cards for every person who lives in the home
  • Most current water bill, which must be dated within 30 days of the appointment date
  • Driver's license or state-issued ID for the applicant and all household members who are 60 years of age and older
  • Verification of U.S. citizenship or immigration status 
  • Failure to bring the required documentation above may result in your appointment being rescheduled

Click image to email Ninth District Opportunity to schedule an appointment

LIHWAP logo of a blue and yellow water drop

The PUD does not determine eligibility, the amount of assistance provided, or accept applications.  While applying for assistance, please continue to pay your bill and/or make a payment arrangement with our customer support representatives.   An appointment with Action, Inc. for water assistance or a completed application does not guarantee processing or payment.

How are the funds distributed?

PHASEDATESELIGIBLE HOUSEHOLDS
Phase 1Through December 31, 2021Households with past-due water bill balances
Phase 2Begins January 3, 2022
  • Households with disconnected service or past-due water bill balances
  • Household with elderly (60 years of age or older) members or with children five years of age and younger
Phase 3Begins February 1, 2022All other eligible residents

Ninth District Opportunity flyer about LIHWAP

  1. What is the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program?
  2. How do I qualify for LIHWAP?
  3. How do I apply for LIHWAP?
  4. Can I apply for LIHWAP through the ACC Public Utilities Department or Water Business Office?
  5. When can I apply for LIHWAP assistance?
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