Low Income Household Water Assistance Program

Washington water assistance is provided through the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) and provides funds to assist low-income households with water and wastewater bills that are disconnected or are in imminent threat of disconnection.

Program Overview

LIHWAP provides emergency assistance to low-income households who are disconnected or are in imminent threat of disconnection. 

LIHWAP provides water assistance to households in Washington through the same network of community action agencies and local partners that provide the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). These local organizations will help you determine if you’re eligible and how much assistance you might receive. If you qualify, your local agency will send a payment directly to your water utility on behalf of your household.

Households eligible for water assistance are also qualified for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Program Eligibility

Eligibility is based on several factors, including household income, drinking water, and sewer costs. Household and income eligibility are the same as for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), view those eligibility guidelines here. Contact your local Water Assistance agency by clicking on the map below to apply for help.

How to Apply

To apply for water assistance, you must schedule an appointment with the organization that offers services in your area.

Click here or on the map below to view a county map and select the county you live in. That will show you the contact information for the agency in your area and instructions for scheduling an appointment.

A map of Washington state with county outlines. Clicking the map opens a drop-down menu to select the county you live in.

NOTE: Commerce does not determine eligibility or award grants to households.