The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) helps low-income households pay for water and sewer services. The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) can assist households with their past due bills.  

Customers receiving LIHWAP benefits may be eligible for a maximum of $2,500 per water or sewer provider, or $5,000 if water and sewer services are combined. Benefits provided will be based on:

  • Income
  • Household Size
  • Amount owned to your water or sewer provider

Your household may be eligible for benefits if:

  • You are a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or qualified alien
  • Your household meets the monthly income guidelines
  • Your water, sewer, or combined water and sewer account is 20 days past due 
  • You have a water lien that is levied on your local property taxes
  • You are facing termination or disconnection for unpaid bills

Or you receive one of the following benefits:

  • Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefits: 
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits
  • Cash Assistance / Public Assistance
  • Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living)

Eligible Monthly Household Income

Household SizeMaximum Gross Monthly Income
1$2,852
2$3,730
3$4,608
4$5,485
5$6,363
6$7,241
7$7,405
8$7,570
9$7,734
10$7,899
11$8,064
12$8,228
13$8,778
More than 13Add $590 for each additional person

You can submit your application online through the OTDA website, by mail, or by fax.

You must include the following documentation with your application:

  • Proof of identity for the primary applicant
  • A valid Social Security Number for the primary applicant
  • Proof of residence
  • A water, sewer, or combined water and sewer bill listing your permanent and primary residence
  • Documentation of income for the primary applicant

Online

Apply for LIHWAP.

By Mail

Mail your application and documents to:

NYS LIHWAP
PO Box 1789
Albany, NY 12201

By Fax

Fax your application and documents to 518-486-1259

By phone

  • Agency: New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
  • Division: LIHWAP Helpline
  • Phone Number: (800) 342-3334
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 4:45 PM

You can contact the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to check the status of your water and sewer bill.

  • Agency: Department of Environmental Protection
  • Division: Bureau of Customer Services Water Meter Services and Billing
  • Phone Number: (718) 595-7000
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 8 AM - 7 PM; Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM

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