The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority has partnered with Dollar Energy Fund to administer a Hardship Program to assist customers having difficulty paying their water bill. The PWSA Hardship Program provides assistance grants that are applied directly to a limited-income household’s utility bill. Eligible applicants can receive a grant once every 12 months. Program guidelines and eligibility requirements are subject to change.
Open from October 2, 2023, through September 30, 2024, eligible applicants regardless of service status.
Grants are dispersed on a first come, first serve basis to eligible applicants while funding is available.
Applicants must have an outstanding balance on their utility bill of at least $1.
The maximum grant amount an applicant may receive is $450. Customers can receive up to $450 each towards water and wastewater charges.
Applicants can only receive a grant once every 12 months.
Grant awards are based on need and each family’s circumstances are different. Grant amounts are determined on a case-to-case basis.
If a customer’s utility service is off or in threat of termination when they apply and the maximum grant amount will not restore service or stop termination, the application will be denied. The amount needed to restore service or stop a termination is determined by utility review. Notification will be sent to the customer advising them that their application was denied and that an additional payment is required in order to be considered for assistance.
Account must be residential, single home or apartment. No commercial, industrial, or apartments with shared utility service.
Name on account must be that of an adult who is currently living in the home.
Dollar Energy Fund grants cannot be used to cover security deposits or reconnection fees.
Total gross household income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. Use our Income Calculator, or the chart below, to find out if your gross (before tax) income is within the range of eligibility for the program.
| Household Size | 200% Monthly | 200% Yearly |
| 1 | $2,510 | $30,120 |
| 2 | $3,407 | $40,880 |
| 3 | $4,303 | $51,640 |
| 4 | $5,200 | $62,400 |
| 5 | $6,097 | $73,160 |
| 6 | $6,993 | $83,920 |
| 7 | $7,890 | $94,680 |
| 8 | $8,787 | $105,440 |
| Each add’l add | $897 | $10,760 |
A copy of your most recent PWSA bill with proof of minimum payment must be attached to all applications.
Total gross monthly income for all members living in the household.
The best way to start seeking help is by calling the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority at 412-255-2423. They will provide you with information on a number of different assistance programs that are available to help low-income customers.
Dollar Energy also partners with a network of Community Based Organizations throughout the state. These dedicated agencies provide application intake services for clients. Find an agency in your area with Dollar Energy Fund’s Agency Finder.
The best way to start seeking help is by calling the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority at 412-255-2423. They will provide you with information on a number of different assistance programs that are available to help low-income customers.
Dollar Energy also partners with a network of Community Based Organizations throughout the state. These dedicated agencies provide application intake services for clients. Find an agency in your area with Dollar Energy Fund’s Agency Finder.