Starting July 1, the Philadelphia Water Department will offer the Tiered Assistance Program (TAP), a low-income assistance program that will offer payments based on household income, not water usage, making monthly bills more affordable and consistent. To be eligible, residents must be under 150% of the federal poverty level. Those individuals who have a special hardship, but whose household income exceeds 150%, may also be considered. Under this program, any past due balance owed would be frozen and penalties and interest would be forgiven for individuals who make on time payments for two years. Individuals do not need to be behind on their monthly water bills to be eligible for the program.
For information about the income based payment program and to apply, individuals can call the Philadelphia Water Department at 215-685-6300. Please also see the links listed below.
For questions about public utility programs and utility issues, seniors 60 years and over can call the Pennsylvania SeniorLAW HelpLine for free and confidential advice, information and referrals. SeniorLAW Center is proud to be a member of the Emergency Fund for Older Philadelphians. The Emergency Fund provides financial assistance to low income Philadelphia seniors in crisis situations to meet their most basic needs. Philadelphia residents facing utility shut offs may call the HelpLine to see if they are eligible to receive a referral to the Emergency Fund for assistance. You may contact the HelpLine at (215) 988-1242 or toll free at 1-877-727-7529 Monday through Thursday between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
http://www.phila.gov/water/educationoutreach/customerassistance/pages/default.aspx
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/politics/city/for-low-income-residents-philadelphia-unveiling-income-based-water-bills-20170620.html