LIHWAP Eligibility & How To Apply

To receive help from LIHWAP...

Households must meet 60% of Rhode Island's Median Income Levels that are set each program year. See the current guidelines here. Some of the program eligibility requirements are listed below:

• You don't have to be on public assistance
• You must have the water and/or wastewater in your name
• You must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen (permanent resident, etc.)

Application Process

DHS administers the program, but applications are taken at local Community Action Program (CAP) agencies. For documentation requirements, customers contact their local CAP agency. Your local CAP agency will walk you through the application process. Here are a few important points:

• New applicants should apply in person
• CAP agencies provide convenient, safe intake locations and will arrange for older adults or disabled individuals to apply at an intake site

Learn more and how to apply by contacting your local Community Action Program agency.

Applicants will be required to provide: 

• Proof of identity for each member of the household  
• Valid Social Security Numbers (SSN) for each member of the household
• Proof of residence (tax bill, mortgage statement, etc.)
• Documentation of earned and unearned income 
• A water and/or wasterwater bill