Philadelphia Water Department extends shutoff freeze

The Philadelphia Water Department and Water Revenue Bureau recently announced an extension protecting Philadelphia residents who are unable to pay their water bill. 

Residents are now safe from water shutoffs through Aug. 31. 

“The safety of our customers and our employees is, as always, our highest priority. As we face this challenge as a city, the Water Department wants Philadelphians to know that losing access to water is one thing they won’t have to worry about,” Commissioner Randy E. Hayman said in a statement. 

Those who experienced job loss due to COVID-19 and are unable to pay their bill are encouraged to apply for assistance at  phila.gov/waterbillhelp. If approved, applicants will have a lower monthly bill that will be consistent from month to month. Assistance programs are open to PWD customers who are low-income, seniors and experiencing a special hardship—such as job loss or unexpected medical expenses—that has made it difficult or impossible to pay their water bill. 

“If you can’t pay a water bill because of the pandemic, please get in touch to see how we can help,” Hayman said. “If you can pay, please do so. Water bills are our only way to fund critical investments that ensure Philadelphia has safe, clean water.”

The Philadelphia Water Department hotline is open for emergencies at 215-685-6300.