Water is a basic necessity, and for many households, this bill can be a significant burden. Some Illinois water companies provide discount programs to help make the bills more affordable. Especially in times of inflation and economic uncertainty, having a path to savings in your monthly bills can make a real difference.
Please note: Water discounts are not provided or processed by IACAA or Community Action Agencies. Families should apply directly using the link provided below.
If you are a residential customer of Aqua Illinois or Illinois American Water, and your income is limited, you may qualify for significant savings on your water/wastewater bill (in some cases up to 80%).
The actual discount depends on your income level and which utility you use.
Participating Water Companies
Aqua Illinois Water Company
- How to Apply: Aqua Illinois Customer Assistance Program
- Service Areas: Boone, Champaign, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Kane, Kankakee, Knox, Lake, McHenry, Ogle, Vermilion, Will, and Winnebago.
Illinois American Water Company
- How to Apply: Illinois American Customer Assistance Program
- Service Areas: Check Illinois American Service Areas at this link.
Application Tips
Check which utility you use. Confirm whether you are a customer of Aqua Illinois or Illinois American Water. Other water companies do not offer discounts.
Gather income and household information. You’ll need proof of income (before taxes) for all household members (excluding minors in some cases) and the number of people in your household.
Apply through the Dollar Energy Fund Website. Use the online portal (MyApp) or call the toll-free line (1-888-282-6816). Be sure to have your utility account number ready.
Recertify annually. Once enrolled, you will need to submit updated income/household information each year to continue receiving the discount.
Monitor your bills. After approval, you should see the discount reflected in your monthly bill — either as a reduced usage rate (for Aqua) or reduced fixed and volumetric charges (for Illinois American Water).
Important Notes & Tips
If you have difficulty using the online portal to apply, please ask a relative or friend to help you.
IACAA and Community Action Agencies do not administer these programs; the water companies use Dollar Energy Fund for enrollment and approval.
Beware of scams: Dollar Energy Fund notes they will never ask for payment over the phone or request your bank routing number in exchange for assistance.
Even if you think your income is above the maximum for a tier, it's worth having Dollar Energy Fund and the utility calculate your income to determine eligibility and get their answer.
Keep your documentation well-organized, including pay stubs, tax returns, or other proofs of income, as requested by the application portal.
If you move or change your utility account, you may need to apply again or update your account information.