St. Louis City Water Department Expands Assistance for Overdue Water Bills
For residents struggling with utility debt, good news is on the horizon. The St. Louis City water department has officially updated its Water Utility Assistance Program, offering a lifeline to thousands of households. After listening to community feedback, officials have relaxed eligibility requirements and extended repayment terms. These changes are designed to help more residents get back on track with their payments while ensuring the city can maintain vital infrastructure.
If you have a past-due St. Louis water bill, these new measures could provide the financial relief and time you need to settle your account without fear of service interruption.
Why the Water Utility Assistance Program Was Updated
The changes come after a challenging period for both the utility and its customers. Following a five-year moratorium on water shut-offs that began during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the city resumed discontinuing service for delinquent accounts in September.
This long pause in collections caused the number of past-due residential accounts to skyrocket to over 14,000. In total, the St. Louis City water department is facing more than $10 million in owed funds from residential customers alone. When commercial accounts are included, the total overdue amount exceeds $14 million across 16,000 accounts.
Recovering these funds is critical. The revenue allows the Water Division to maintain the city’s aging water infrastructure and continue its mission of providing safe, reliable water at an economical price. However, officials recognized that demanding immediate payment in full was not feasible for many families, necessitating a more flexible approach.
Note: The City is currently not shutting off water for customers affected by the May 16 tornado.
New Eligibility Requirements for St. Louis Water Bill Relief
The updated program aims to be more inclusive, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most. The St. Louis City water department has adjusted the income thresholds significantly.
Previously, household income eligibility was capped at 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Under the new rules, this has been expanded to 80% of the AMI or below.
To qualify for assistance, residents must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: Must be a resident of St. Louis City.
- Account Status: Must have a delinquent water service balance that is more than 90 days old.
- Hardship: Must demonstrate hardship due to COVID-19.
- Income: Must fall at or below 80% of the Area Median Income.
Financial Benefits and Credits
Eligible residents can receive a significant boost through the program. The assistance includes a one-time credit of up to $500, which is applied directly to the resident’s water account. This credit serves as a down payment of sorts, lowering the total debt burden immediately.
Extended Repayment Terms for the St. Louis Water Department
Perhaps the most significant change based on community feedback is the extension of repayment timelines. Previously, residents were required to settle their remaining balances within a tight 6-to-12-month window.
Now, the Collector of Revenue’s Office has expanded these terms. Residents must enroll in a repayment plan to pay off the balance remaining after the $500 credit is applied. Depending on the size of the balance, customers can now enroll in either a 12-month or a 24-month repayment plan.
This extension provides manageable monthly installments, reducing the financial strain on households. Crucially, residents who apply and actively participate in these repayment plans will not have their water service shut off.
How to Apply for Water Utility Assistance
Funding for this program is limited, so the St. Louis City water department is processing applications on a first-come, first-served basis. If you believe you are eligible, it is essential to act quickly.
Steps to take action:
- Visit the Website: Go to stlwater.com to view the complete list of eligibility requirements and read frequently asked questions.
- Contact Support: Residents who need help applying or have specific questions about their St. Louis water bill can call the Water Division customer service team at 314-771-2255.
- In-Person Assistance: You can also visit the Water Division office located at 1640 S. Kingshighway.
Getting your account in good standing not only secures your water service but also helps the city maintain the systems that keep clean water flowing to everyone.
For more insights on community updates and local news, check out other resources at The Narrative Matters.
For broader information on utility assistance programs in Missouri, visit the Missouri Department of Social Services LIHEAP page.
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