Dollar Energy Fund’s Pennsylvania Hardship Program provides one-time assistance grants to Pennsylvania American Water customers that are applied directly to their utility bill. Funding is available on a first come, first serve basis and eligibility requirements vary based on the utility company. Program guidelines and eligibility requirements are subject to change.
Open from October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025, for services that are off or in threat of termination.
Starting March 1, 2025, the program is open to all eligible applicants regardless of service status.
Applicants must have an outstanding balance on their utility bill of at least $100.
The maximum grant amount an applicant may receive is $500 for water and $500 for wastewater.
A household can receive multiple grants in a program year (10/1/2024 – 9/30/2025) as long as the total amount granted does not exceed $500 per utility ($500 maximum for each water and wastewater).
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.
Total gross household income must be at or below 250% 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 | 250% Monthly | 250% Yearly |
1 | $3,138 | $37,650 |
2 | $4,258 | $51,100 |
3 | $5,379 | $64,550 |
4 | $6,500 | $78,000 |
5 | $7,621 | $91,450 |
6 | $8,742 | $104,900 |
7 | $9,863 | $118,350 |
8 | $10,983 | $131,800 |
Each add’l add | $1,121 | $13,450 |
The best way to start seeking help is by calling your utility company. They will provide you with information on a number of different assistance programs that are available to help low-income utility customers. Dollar Energy also partners with a network of Community Based Organizations throughout the state to provide application intake services for clients. Find an agency in your area with Dollar Energy Fund’s Agency Finder.
Eligible Pennsylvania American Water customers may be able to complete portions of their application through our online MyApp portal.
The best way to start seeking help is by calling your utility company. They will provide you with information on a number of different assistance programs that are available to help low-income utility customers. Dollar Energy also partners with a network of Community Based Organizations throughout the state to provide application intake services for clients. Find an agency in your area with Dollar Energy Fund’s Agency Finder.
Eligible Pennsylvania American Water customers may be able to complete portions of their application through our online MyApp portal.