Many people in our region are facing affordability challenges. At the same time, the cost of providing utility services, including electricity, water, sewer, and garbage, continues to rise.
Seattle City Light and Seattle Public Utilities provide options to help customers manage their utility bills.
In 2027, we will increase income criteria for utility assistance programs so that more households can get help lowering their bills.
More Customers Will Qualify for Utility Discounts
The Utility Discount Program helps income-qualified customers lower their monthly utility bills. Through the program, qualified residential customers receive:
- 60% off future City Light electricity bills
- 50% off future Seattle Public Utilities water, sewer, and garbage bills
On average, customers can save $120 to $205 each month through the Utility Discount Program.
We are increasing the limits to better reflect the cost of living in our region. This change is expanding assistance to nearly 30% more customers.
Emergency Bill Assistance Is Also Expanding
Customers may also qualify for assistance with their utility bills.
- City Light offers $710 or more towards past due electric bills. Plus, an additional $250 credit through Project Share.
- Seattle Public Utilities offers $537 or more towards current water, sewer, and garbage bills.
We are also expanding the income criteria for our emergency bill assistance programs to 80% of Area Median Income. This will help more customers access support when they need it most.
Payment Plans Are Available to All Customers
Customers who need more time to pay their utility bill can set up a payment plan.
Payment plans are available to all customers and provide more time to pay down a balance in smaller, more manageable payments.
Reaching Customers Where They Are
City Light and Seattle Public Utilities are working with community organizations, service providers, and trusted partners to help spread the word about available utility assistance.
We want to make sure customers know what options are available and understand how to apply for assistance.
We will continue working with community partners to connect more people with affordability resources and make it easier for customers to get the help they need.
Find Out If You Qualify
Customers can find out if they qualify to lower their utility bill at seattle.gov/UtilityBillHelp.
If you do not qualify today, check back next year. With expanded income eligibility beginning in 2027, more customers will become eligible for utility assistance.
Additional Affordability Resources
Customers may also qualify for state or federal energy assistance programs.
The City of Seattle also offers an Assistance and Discounts resource to help people find ways to save money on utilities, internet, housing, food, and more.
As utility rates change, the City of Seattle will continue to look for ways to help keep essential services accessible for everyone.