Frequently asked questions

  • The Lifeline H2O Program helps make water bills affordable for Detroit residents. Eligible households receive a fixed $34 monthly bill covering water, sewer, and drainage (up to 6 CCF of usage). The program also protects participants from shutoffs as long as they remain eligible.

  • You may qualify if:

    • You are a DWSD account holder
    • Your household income is ≤ 200% of the Federal Poverty Level OR you participate in certain eligible benefits programs
    • You live in a single-family home in Detroit
    • The account is your primary residence
    • Your account has a $0 past-due balance at the time of application
    • You have a working water meter

  • You can qualify by providing one of the following:

    1. Proof of Participation in an Eligible Program: Qualifying programs include: Food Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Family Independence Program (FIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI (note: this is not SSA Retirment or Disabilty benefits) or State Emergency Relief (SER).

    2. Income Documents for the Past 30 Days: Examples include:

    • Paystubs
    • Employer letter
    • Social Security benefit letter
    • Self-employment profit/loss documents
    • Bank statements showing interest/dividends

    3. Proof of a Recent Decrease in Income: For example: job loss, reduced hours, or other changes.

  • Household Income Chart (≤ 200% Federal Poverty Level)

    Household SizeMonthly IncomeAnnual Income
    1$2,608$31,300
    2$3,525$42,300
    3$4,441$53,300
    4$5,358$64,300
    5$6,275$75,300
    6$7,191$86,300
    7$8,108$97,300
    8$9,025$108,300
    9$9,941$119,300
    10$10,858$130,300
    11$11,775$141,300
    12$12,691$152,300
    13$13,608$163,300
    14$14,525$174,300

  • Applicants without internet access have two options to provide their documents:

    OPTION 1: Drop Off Documents In-Person - If you cannot upload documents online, you can drop them off at the DWSD Customer Service Center. Bring your eligibility documents to:

    DWSD Customer Service Center 735 Randolph Street Detroit, MI 48226 Open Monday–Friday, 9 AM–3 PM EST

    After dropping off your paperwork, call us back in 5 business days so we can help start your application.

    OPTION 2: Mail Your Documents - If you cannot go in person, you may mail copies of your documents. Mail to:

    Detroit Water & Sewerage Department 735 Randolph St Detroit, MI 48226 Attn: Customer Service

    After mailing your documents, call us back in 10 business days so we can help start your application.

    • Submit all required documents (see "How can I prove my income?" above)
    • Make sure documents include your name, dates, and income source
    • Provide gross income, not net income
    • Upload paystubs that cover a full month
    • Provide proof that the account holder is enrolled in one of the eligible programs (not Social Security retirement, etc.)
    • Ensure all documents are clear, complete, and unaltered

  • You may reapply at any time. Applications are reviewed in the order received.

  • Approval lasts for the current program cycle as long as ongoing DWSD requirements are met.

  • DWSD may require:

    • A water meter inspection, installation, or upgrade
    • Participation in water conservation support if usage is too high
    • On-time payment of monthly bills