On May 1, 2023, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced the extension of the water bill amnesty program through May 31st. So far, 86,000 customers have participated and saved money!
The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) launched a temporary water bill amnesty program to help New Yorkers save up to $150 million of interest when they pay their overdue water bills.
DEP is offering a limited one-time amnesty with up to 100% interest forgiveness for all customers with an outstanding balance. If you owe water and wastewater charges, you may be eligible for this amnesty offer.
For customers with a balance of more than $1,000 for over a year, DEP will offer three amnesty options:
- – If 100% of the principal bill is paid, 100% of interest will be forgiven;
- – If 50% of the principal bill is paid, 75% of interest will be forgiven; or
- – If 25% of the principal bill is paid, 50% of interest will be forgiven.
Customers who owe less than $1,000 are still eligible to receive amnesty on 100% of their interest if they pay their total bill. All customers who participate in the water amnesty program and leave a remaining outstanding balance will be required to enter into a payment agreement with DEP.
For customers that already participate in New York State’s Low Income Homeowner Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), DEP is offering up to an additional $30 million to assist these homeowners with forgiveness of up to $5,000 of their remaining balances.
The program ends on April 30, 2023 May 31, 2023. Click here to view your options!
Do you need help paying other utilities? The NYS Energy Affordability Program/Low-Income Bill Discount Program provides income-eligible customers with a discount on their monthly electric and/or gas bills.
You may be enrolled automatically if you receive benefits from a government assistance program. For more information visit Con Edison – Payment Plans and Assistance and National Grid – Bill Help to see what assistance may be available for you.
Do you or someone you know need legal help? Begin an online intake here. If you prefer to speak with staff directly, our intake hours are Monday through Thursday between 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please call (718) 624-3894 or email us at help@accessjusticebk.org.
