CHN Housing Partners, Cleveland Water and Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District offer a few utility assistance programs to help people keep the water running and toilets flushing.
One trick for applying for utility assistance includes taking advantage of CHN Housing Partners’ “eligibility checker.” All you need is your general information, plus some details about your housing status and income. (Bonus: The online tool can verify your eligibility for multiple CHN programs.)
Each water and sewer program has slightly different application requirements, so keep reading for tips on how to apply for help.
How to apply for water utility assistance
CHN Housing Partners and Cleveland Water work together to offer a 40% monthly discount on utilities for one year. The Water Assistance Program is only available to people who own the property where they live and meet income requirements.
Already participating in the program? You must re-certify every year in order to remain eligible. This means that you must complete and return a new application “in a timely manner to prevent any disruption with the discount rate,” according to a CHN spokesperson.
Where to apply: CHN Housing Partners created an online tool where you can check your eligibility. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive an email with instructions on how you set up your account and apply for the Water Assistance Program.
Questions? Call CHN Housing Partners at (216) 774-2349.
How to apply for sewer utility assistance
The Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD) offers both rate reduction and crisis programs for low-income households in need of financial assistance. Unlike the water programs, these are open to renters and homeowners.
- The Sewer Reduction Rate Program – formerly called the Sewer Affordability Program – provides a 40% utility reduction on sewer rates for one year.
- The Crisis Assistance Program provides a one-time credit of up to $300 toward sewer charges affected by a “qualifying life event” such as sudden medical expenses, job loss, separation or divorce.
Where to apply: First, check your eligibility. If you qualify, you can log in to your NEORSD account to apply online to either program.
Questions? Call Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District at (216) 881-8247.
Water and sewer programs for seniors
Cleveland Water and Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District offer programs for homeowners who are at least 65 years old or meet the city’s definition of permanently disabled.
Where to apply: Visit Cleveland Water’s website to download the Homestead application. Applications must be mailed directly to the Division of Water (ATTN: Homestead Unit) at P.O. Box 94687 Cleveland, OH 44101.
Questions? Call Cleveland Water at (216) 664-3130 or the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District at (216) 881-8247.
