WSSC and community organizations connect residents to utility bill relief

Local nonprofit organizations and WSSC Water, the public utility serving 1.9 million residents in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties, are urging residential customers facing difficulties with their water and sewer utility costs to explore newly expanded financial relief programs.

Community advocacy groups, including the United Hearts Foundation, have launched outreach efforts pointing residents to WSSC’s interactive online Financial Assistance Guide to help families identify state and local utility support programs for which they qualify.

Since July 1, 2026, a three-person household using an average of 48 gallons of water per person per day pays approximately $4.92 more per month, according to WSSC Water.

Other financial assistance channels are available to eligible residential account holders who are dealing with late balances or sudden financial emergencies.

The WSSC Water Fund, administered by the United Way of the National Capital Area, provides up to $500 per household within a 12-month period for past-due utility bills. The donor-supported fund serves income-qualified households earning up to 200 percent of the federal poverty line, which equals $66,000 annually for a four-person family. Montgomery County residents seeking in-person application assistance can book appointments at the Latino Economic Development Center inside the WorkSource Montgomery building at 11510 Georgia Ave. in Silver Spring.

For ongoing relief, approved residential customers can enroll in the Customer Assistance Program, which supplies an annual fee credit of up to $319 on water and sewer bills while waiving late fees permanently. Enrollees are also exempt from the state Bay Restoration Fund fee. Residents receiving benefits through the Office of Home Energy Programs, administered by the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, automatically meet eligibility criteria for the program.

Homeowners experiencing emergency residential pipe leaks or breaks on private property can access financing through the PipeER Loan Program, which offers up to $10,000 in funding for service line replacements. 

WSSC also collaborates with Promise to offer interest-free, customizable payment schedules for account holders needing extended time to settle balances.