Pittsburgh Water Hardship Program

Pittsburgh Water has partnered with Dollar Energy Fund to administer a Hardship Program to assist customers having difficulty paying their water bill. The Pittsburgh Water Hardship Program provides assistance grants that are applied directly to a limited-income household’s utility bill. Eligible applicants can receive a grant once every 12 months. Program guidelines and eligibility requirements are subject to change.

Program Dates

Open from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025, eligible applicants regardless of service status.

Grants are dispersed on a first come, first serve basis to eligible applicants while funding is available.

Balance Requirement

Applicants must have an outstanding balance on their utility bill of at least $1.

Maximum Grant

The maximum grant amount an applicant may receive is $450. Customers can receive up to $450 each towards water and wastewater charges. 

Applicants can only receive a grant once every 12 months.

Grant awards are based on need and each family’s circumstances are different. Grant amounts are determined on a case-to-case basis.

If a customer’s utility service is off or in threat of termination when they apply and the maximum grant amount will not restore service or stop termination, the application will be denied. The amount needed to restore service or stop a termination is determined by utility review. Notification will be sent to the customer advising them that their application was denied and that an additional payment is required in order to be considered for assistance.

Additional Guidelines

Account must be residential, single home or apartment. No commercial, industrial, or apartments with shared utility service.

Name on account must be that of an adult who is currently living in the home.

Dollar Energy Fund grants cannot be used to cover security deposits or reconnection fees.

Income Guidelines

Total gross household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. Use our Income Calculator, or the chart below, to find out if your gross (before tax) income is within the range of eligibility for the program.

Application Attachments

A copy of your most recent PWSA bill with proof of minimum payment must be attached to all applications.

Total gross monthly income for all members living in the household.