As of June 1, 2023, we are no longer accepting applications for this program.  

This program began Dec. 1, 2021, eligible households that had their water services cut off or received notice that their water services were in danger of being cut off applied for assistance in paying their bill through a new federal program called the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). 

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Households that currently receive Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Work First services, or those that received Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) services between Oct. 1, 2020, and Sept. 30, 2021, are automatically eligible to receive this benefit if their water services have been cut off or are in danger of being cut off.

All other households that have had their water services or are in danger of losing it can apply starting Dec. 1, 2021, online at epass.nc.gov. Individuals can also apply by printing a paper application from epass.nc.gov and dropping it off at or faxing it to their local county Department of Social Services or by calling their local county Department of Social Services to apply by phone.

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Beginning Jan. 1, 2022, all households that are not in danger of having their water service cut off can apply for assistance if they meet the eligibility requirements. To be eligible for the LIHWAP program, a household must have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen and:

• Have income equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty level,
• Have household services that are disconnected, in jeopardy of disconnection or have a current outstanding bill, and
• Be responsible for the water bill

Households can apply through Sept. 30, 2023, or until funds are exhausted.