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Water/Energy Assistance Program
Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a federally-funded program that provides emergency assistance to low-income households for drinking water and wastewater services.
- LIHWAP is a temporary and seasonal emergency program that helps eligible households afford water and wastewater services.
- Payments are made directly to the utility company.
- Households can apply for LIHWAP through September 30, 2023, or until funds run out.
- Households that have had services disconnected or are in jeopardy of disconnection will continue to have priority funding.
HOW TO APPLY FOR LIHWAP ASSISTANCE
- Apply Online: epass.nc.gov
- Paper: You can download a paper application, print it, fill it out, and return it to the Richmond County Department of Social Services. Applications are also located in the foyer of the Richmond County Social Services Building.
LIHWAP Paper Application - English (PDF)
LIHWAP Paper Application - Spanish (PDF) - Phone: You can apply by phone by calling (910)997-8400
ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible for LIHWAP, a household must have at least one U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen and:
- Have income equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty level (see chart)
- Have household services that are disconnected, in jeopardy of disconnection, or have a current outstanding bill
- Be responsible for the water bill
Households can apply through September 30, 2023, or until funds run out.
2022 Annual Federal Poverty Income Levels
2022 Monthly Federal Poverty Income Levels
Low Income Energy Assistance (LIEAP)
The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a federally-funded program that provides a one-time payment to help eligible households pay their heating bills.
Eligibility
Households including a person aged 60 or older or disabled persons receiving services through the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services are eligible to sign up for assistance from Dec. 1 – 31.
All other households may apply from Jan. 1 – to March 31 or until funds are exhausted.
Households that meet the following criteria may be eligible:
- Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria.
- Meet an income test-Based on 130% of Federal Poverty (See chart)
- Have reserves at or below $2,250.
- Be responsible for heating costs.
Apply
Contact the Richmond County Department of Social Services at (910)997-8400
Requirements for the program:
| Eligibility Requirement | What's Needed | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ID, Contact with someone knowledgeable of your situation. | At application |
| Address | Lease, rental agreement, any other shelter expenses, contact with someone knowledgeable of your situation. | At application or situation, if moving |
| Citizenship/ Alien Status | Verification of citizenship/alien status via Immigration and Naturalization Service. | At application |
| Social Security Number | Valid social security card or number. | At application |
| Earned Income: Wages/Self-Employment | Wage stubs, tax forms contacting employer. | At application |
| Unearned Income: Public Benefits/ Private Retirement Benefits/Trust, etc. | Documents from provider, award letter. | At application |
| Assets/Resources | Ownership and tax records - bank and court documents. | At application |
| Heating Expense | Copy of bills. | At application |