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Akron Utility Bill Assistance Program

The City of Akron is launching the Akron Utility Bill Assistance Program to help Akron residents struggling with their utility bills. The application will not be available until January 1, 2024. Please check back then to apply. 

This is an ongoing, monthly assistance program for Akron Residents (homeowners and tenants) with a household income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines. Residents eligible for the program will receive a 40% discount on the drinking water portion of their Akron Utility bill.

Eligibility for the Akron Utility Bill Assistance Program

Akron residents are eligible if they are a recipient of the Summit County Homestead Exemption, they have received a Home Energy Assistance Program letter of participation, or they have a Percentage of Income Payment Plus letter of participation. The City of Akron will use either: (1) HEAP or a Percentage of Income Payment Plus (PIPP) letter of participation or (2) verification of receipt of Summit County Homestead Exemption to determine eligibility for Akron Cares 2.0.

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a federally-funded program that provides assistance to eligible Ohioans with their home energy bills. The application process is managed by the Ohio Department of Development and local Energy Assistance Providers, such as Akron/Summit Community Action, Inc.

The Summit County Homestead Exemption is available to the following:

  • Homeowners over the age of 65;
  • Homeowners who are permanently and totally disabled;
  • Military veterans who have either received a total disability rating for service-connected disabilities, or received a total disability rating for compensation for service-connected disabilities based on a determination of individual unemployability;
  • Homeowners already receiving the Homestead Exemption, who have recently changed residences; and
  • The spouse of a fallen first responder who passes away in the line of duty.

How to Apply 

STEP 1:

  • If utilizing the HEAP or PIPP method of eligibility, apply through the Ohio Department of Development by:
  • If utilizing the Homestead Exemption and you have not yet applied for the exemption, follow Summit County’s instructions to apply for the Exemption.

STEP 2: Once your Homestead Exemption or HEAP or PIPP participation is confirmed:

  • If using HEAP or PIPP eligibility, wait until January, 2024 and fill out the application which will be available on this page
  • The application can be returned by email, U.S. Mail, or fax as follows:

Email: ubo@akronohio.gov

Mail: 1180 S. Main Street, Suite 110, Akron, Ohio 44301

Fax: (330) 375-2308

Important notes: 

  • Akron Residents who do not own their home, but are responsible for their water bill must attach documentation to their application verifying their responsibility to pay for the Akron water bill.
  •  If using Homestead Exemption eligibility, the City can verify eligibility without an application. Please call (330) 375-2554 if you have a Homestead Exemption, but are not receiving the Utility Bill Assistance discount on the water portion of your Akron Utility Bill.
  • Residents may apply at any time after January 1, 2024. The City of Akron will contact participants at least annually to verify continued eligibility.

 

Questions? Call (330) 375-2554