Help is available for customers who are struggling to pay their water bill. Grants from the state of California are funding two programs – one to help customers who are behind on their water bills and one to help customers with future water bills – that have helped residents across the county.
Low-Income Water Assistance Program (LIWAP)
If you are behind on your water bill, you may qualify for the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). The program offers income-qualifying customers up to $15,000 to help pay off an outstanding water and/or sewer bill. The program may even help lower the cost of future bills. Customers who are behind on their bills and are currently receiving support from programs like CalFresh and CalWorks or are enrolled in SDGE’s CARE program should apply.
The program is administered by two regional non-profits that serve our local area. If you live in La Mesa, Lemon Grove, Casa de Oro (91941 zip code) or Mt. Helix, contact Campesinos Unidos to apply or call 619-391-9790.
If you live in Spring Valley, Casa de Oro (91977 zip code), El Cajon, Bostonia, Lakeview or Winter Gardens, fill out the eligibility form online at
Metropolitan Area Advisory Committee or call 619-349-0123.
Income Qualifying Direct Install Program
To reduce your water use and save money, take advantage of the county’s Direct Install Program. Qualifying residents in single-family, multifamily and mobile homes get new water-efficient devices installed at their property for free. No-cost products include 1.1 gallons per flush toilets that flush with force and reduce your indoor water use – by up to 10-20% and irrigation controllers that respond to daily weather conditions – that you don’t have to program. This San Diego County Water Authority Program is offering these free improvements to your home thanks to a $1.8 million grant from the state of California and the water savings they provide. See if you qualify at hwd.fyi/toilets.
Share these programs with others in need.
Finally, not everyone reading this may qualify as low-income or needing assistance with their water bills, but most of us know someone who is. Please use the icons below to help share the programs and services available with a friend, family member or neighbor in need. Thanks for the help.