Water bill discounts are available to Philadelphia seniors who meet certain income requirements. If you or a senior you know needs help with their bill, don’t hesitate to contact us! Keep reading to find out more.

Pay 25% less

The City of Philadelphia offers several discount programs to its residents, including a water bill discount program for qualifying seniors.  If you’re 65 or older, you get 25% off your bill, but you must:

  • Live at the address you put on your application,
  • Have a water bill in your name, and
  • Have a total household income of $38,800 or less.

Tenants, if your water bill isn’t in your name, contact us to get added to the account. It unlocks multiple bill-related services, including water bill assistance programs that can help you save money.

There’s still a way to save

In case you don’t qualify for the 25% discount, you can still get lower bills with the Tiered Assistance Program (TAP). This program makes water bills more affordable for Philadelphians, including low-income residents. Plus, it’s the only program that forgives water bill debt after 24 consistent payments. It wipes out all existing charges, including penalties and principal. You’ll see penalties disappear before the principal is erased from your account.

The best part is that once enrolled, your water bill stays the same every month. All you have to do is pay your TAP bills on time and in full. It’s the best way to get debt forgiveness.

There’s still a chance for water bill discounts for higher-income households experiencing a special hardship, such as job loss. Visit our customer assistance webpage for more information on affordable water bills in Philadelphia.

All you need is one application

Use this one-stop customer assistance application to apply online, in person, or by mail. There’s no specific application form for the senior citizen water bill discount program or TAP. The quickest and most convenient way is to apply online. It only takes this single application to get you the help you need. Alternatively, you can call (215) 685-6300 to get an application mailed to you. You’ll need your Water Access Code, found on your bill, and address for this call.

Before you apply

Review the application form thoroughly; it contains examples of acceptable supporting documents as well as instructions on how to submit it.

You’ll need to provide one proof of residency (only applicable to the homeowner), such as a state-issued ID or a utility bill. You must also provide a proof of income for everyone in your house.  Even better, you can use one proof of income (paystub or social security award letter) to satisfy both residency and income requirements if it shows your name and property address.

When we receive your application, we look at all the information provided and set you up with the program that provides the biggest savings.

Need help with your application?

Don’t have internet connection or need help completing your application? Please visit a partner location to get all the help you need. To find the closest location near you, visit Get help applying for lower water bills or call (855) 827-8373 for help. Make sure to bring photocopies of all the documents you need.

Still have questions? Call us at (215) 685-6300!