STATUS: Active; enrollment is currently full, but residents can join the notification list to be alerted when new applications are accepted.

SERVICE AREA: City of Detroit

CLIENTS SERVED: Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) residential customers with household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level who meet the program requirements.

DESCRIPTION: The DWSD Lifeline H2O Plan is an income-based water affordability program that provides qualifying households with a low, fixed monthly bill for water, sewerage, and drainage services. The program is designed to keep water costs affordable and protect eligible households from water shutoffs while they remain enrolled and pay their monthly income-based bill. Residents with past-due balances may also qualify, although the existing balance remains on the account and must be addressed when Lifeline H2O enrollment ends.

PROGRAMS/SERVICES:

• Income-Based Water Bill: Qualifying households may receive a fixed monthly bill as low as $34 for water, sewerage, and drainage services.
• Water Usage: Includes up to 4,500 gallons of water usage per household per month before normal water and sewerage rates apply.
• Shutoff Protection: Provides protection from water shutoff while enrolled, as long as the household pays its required monthly bill.
• Water Conservation Assistance: If funding is available and household usage exceeds 4,500 gallons for three consecutive months, the household may receive free water conservation measures to address leaks and inefficient equipment.
• Past-Due Balances: As of February 9, residents with past-due balances may apply. The existing balance remains on the account and the resident is responsible for the balance after Lifeline H2O enrollment ends. Residents approved for Lifeline H2O who are enrolled in EasyPay will be removed from EasyPay.

HOW TO ACCESS SERVICES: Enrollment is currently full. To be notified when Lifeline H2O begins accepting new applications, complete the Lifeline H2O notification form. When enrollment is open, applicants can apply through the same website call 313-435-2055 for assistance. Applicants need their DWSD account number and proof of household income or verification of enrollment in FAP, MEAP, SNAP, or another eligible public benefit program.