Affordable Water & Sewer Rate Program

Participate in Access Evanston (Evanston Benefit Card)? 

You qualify for a lower water and sewer rate!

Evanston community members who are determined to be income qualified ($26,973 for household of one, $36,482 for household of two, $45,991 for household of three, and $55,500 for household of four) for the Access Evanston (Evanston Benefit Card) can now receive a reduced rate for water and sewer services provided by the City of Evanston effective January 1, 2024. As part of the City’s efforts to ensure that all community members have access to affordable, high-quality drinking water, all Evanston community members who qualify for the Access Evanston (Evanston Benefit Card) can participate even if they don’t pay a water and sewer bill.

Qualified community members who enroll in the program will receive a reduced water rate of $2.09 per 100 cubic feet of water consumption, compared to the regular rate of $3.91 per cubic feet, and a reduced sewer rate of $1.94 per 100 cubic feet, compared to the regular rate of $3.08 per 100 cubic feet. A typical individual uses approximately 30 units (22,440 gallons) of water in a typical year. Those who qualify for the program but don’t pay a water and sewer bill will receive an annual payment reflecting their estimated savings.

Applicants will be asked to provide proof of the following:

• Age (Current Evanston State ID or driver's license);
• Evanston residency (Evanston ID/driver's license and a utility bill);
• Income (last year's tax return); and
• Disability if under the age of 65 (Social Security Award Letter).
• Social Security award letter (in the case where income taxes are not filed)
• If taxes are filed annually, please provide the 1040 IRS tax form
• For renters a lease is required for reduced water and sewer rates.
• A water utility statement. Please be sure the applicant's name is stated on the utility water bill.

When to enroll

Enrollment is open year round.

Benefits

Qualified community members will pay a reduced rate for water and sewer service starting January 1, 2024. Those who qualify but do not pay a water and sewer bill will receive an annual payment.