Utility Help in Section 8 Housing (U.S.)
If you're part of the Section 8 program, here’s how utility assistance works:
- Utility Allowance
Section 8 doesn’t directly pay your utility bills.
But if utilities (like water, gas, electricity) are not included in your rent, your local housing authority gives you a monthly utility allowance.
This allowance is deducted from your rent, so you can use that extra money to pay your utility bills, including water.
- Included Utilities
In some Section 8 apartments, landlords cover water bills.
That means you won’t have to pay separately for water or sewer.
💧 What If You’re Behind on Water Bills?
Section 8 doesn’t cover overdue bills directly, but you may still qualify for help through:
✅ Local Churches or Agencies
Some churches (Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, Methodist churches) offer emergency water bill help, especially for seniors, families, or disabled individuals on Section 8.
✅ LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
Mostly for heating/electric, but some states include water/sewer in emergency relief.
✅ Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Funds
In some counties, ERA programs also cover utilities like water, especially for Section 8 renters affected by job loss or medical crisis.
