City of Bloomington Utilities Expands Financial Assistance Program

City of Bloomington Utilities (CBU) has expanded its Financial Assistance Program to better support community members facing economic hardship by increasing access to and flexibility within existing assistance options. In 2025, CBU budgeted $100,000 each year for the program, but participation levels did not fully utilize the available funding, prompting updates to the program that include:

• Consecutive Assistance: Previously, customers receiving direct payment assistance were required to pay two bills after every three months of support. Under the updated program, customers may receive assistance consecutively, provided they reapply and continue to meet eligibility requirements.
• Program Flexibility: Customers were previously required to apply for assistance before being shut off. That requirement has been removed, allowing eligible customers to apply even after service has been disconnected, as long as they meet program requirements to have service restored.

CBU’s Financial Assistance Program includes payment options, referrals to community assistance partners, and income-based bill support for eligible customers. All applicants must first apply with the South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP) at civiform.bloomington.in.gov/programs/water-assistance.

Those who do not qualify but have total annual household incomes at or below 300 percent of the current Federal Poverty Guidelines may still be eligible for direct financial assistance. 
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“Access to clean, reliable water is essential, and these changes are designed to improve that access,” said CBU Director Katherine Zaiger. “I'm hopeful they will encourage more residents to take advantage of our assistance program.”

The updated program reflects CBU’s ongoing commitment to working with the community. Ratepayers are encouraged to reach out early if they’re having difficulty paying their utility bill. For more information, visit bloomington.in.gov/utilities/financial-assistance or contact CBU Customer Service at 812-349-3930.