Low Income Water Assistance Program

Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)

The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is an income-based program that helps eligible households reduce the risk of water service disconnection or receive assistance with restoring drinking water and wastewater services. This federally funded program is provided through the American Rescue Plan and available to North Carolina to support households facing financial hardship related to water and wastewater costs.

LIHWAP operates based on available funding and is not currently open for applications. When applications are being accepted, a notice will be posted on this page. Residents are encouraged to check back for updates on application availability and program status.

  1. How Assistance Is Provided
  2. How to Apply

Water Assistance Payments and Priorities

  • Assistance is provided as a one-time payment for eligible households.
  • Payments are made directly to the water or wastewater service provider on behalf of approved households.
  • Eligibility is based on total household income.
  • Water bill information, including the vendor name and account number, is required.

Priority Groups

When applications are open, households are generally served in priority order. Households in Priority Groups 1 and 2 are typically served first. Assistance for other households may be provided as funding allows.

  • Priority Group 1: Households that have already had water services disconnected
  • Priority Group 2: Households at risk of water service disconnection unless action is taken
  • Priority Group 3: Households with current water bills that need help maintaining service