Need help with your water bill? The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) helps Virginia residents pay their water and wastewater bills.
About the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program
LIHWAP is a temporary, federally-funded program created to assist low-income households with water and wastewater bills. LIHWAP relief will be available to eligible Virginia residents beginning in October 2022 through September 1, 2023 or until funds are depleted.
The program is administered by the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) in partnership with Promise. Promise is a modern technology solutions company that works with utilities and government agencies around the country to provide payment flexibility for households who are unable to pay their bills and streamlined relief distribution to those in need.
Eligibility
Households eligible for LIHWAP assistance must have a past due water/wastewater balance and a gross household income below 150% of the federal poverty level based on household size (please see the Income Guidelines Table below). Priority will be given to households whose water/wastewater has been disconnected or is at risk of disconnection.
How to Apply
In October, eligible households may apply for LIHWAP relief at:
www.virginialihwap.com or call 888-373-9908
Applicants not already enrolled in an income-based program (such as LIHEAP, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Supplemental Security Income, means-tested veteran programs) will be required to provide evidence of household income.
Application assistance is available by contacting Promise directly at 888-373-9908 between the hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Please do not contact your local department of social services, as they will not be able to provide support regarding the application process.
Payments for clients receiving LIHWAP assistance will be made directly to the water or wastewater utility provider.
Income Guidelines Table
Monthly gross income may not exceed the following requirements:
| Household Size | Maximum Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,699 |
| 2 | $2,289 |
| 3 | $2,879 |
| 4 | $3,469 |
| 5 | $4,059 |
| 6 | $4,649 |
| 7 | $5,239 |
| 8 | $5,829 |
| 9 | $6,419 |
| 10 | $7,009 |
| 11 | $7,599 |
| 12 | $8,189 |
| 13 | $8,779 |
| 14 | $9,369 |
| 15 | $9,959 |
| 16 | $10,549 |
| 17 | $11,139 |
| 18 | $11,729 |
| 19 | $12,319 |
| 20 | $12,909 |
Notice to Water and Wastewater Utility Providers
Water and wastewater utilities must enroll with Promise in order for their clients to participate in LIHWAP. Utilities interested in enrolling or with questions about LIHWAP should contact Promise at valihwap@joinpromise.com.
