The City of Bellingham offers reduced rates to low income senior and disabled customers on water, sewer and storm water utilities provided by the City. Qualification is based on low-income status for seniors and for individuals receiving permanent social security disability benefits. The program includes both homeowners and renters who live in a residence receiving a separate City of Bellingham water or sewer service and water or sewer bill. In the case of renters, the landlord must sign a statement that the reduced rate is a direct benefit to the senior, either because the tenant is responsible for the utility payment or because the rent has been reduced in the amount of the rate reduction.
Seniors must be 62 years of age or older. People with disability must be 18 years of age or older.
The maximum gross income level (qualifying income) is $26,250 or less in 2008, adjusted annually thereafter for inflation. Household income includes income from all persons living in the home. This includes income received from wages, retirement benefits, retirement income including IRA’s, social security, supplemental security income (SSI), social security disability income (SSDI), interest income from savings, bonds, annuities, etc., rental income, business income, etc. Copies of tax returns with schedules and supporting documentation must be submitted. If you are applying for a disability reduction, you must provide a current (less than three months old) statement of eligibility. You can call the Social Security office at 1-800-772-1213 to request benefit verification.
Qualifying customers receive a reduction on their utility billing by the following percentages:
Household Income |
Percent Reduction |
|---|---|
| 0 - 50% of the qualifying income | 75% |
| 51% - 75% of the qualifying income | 50% |
| 76% - 100% of the qualifying income | 25% |
To make application for reduced rates, fill out the "Application for Rate Reduction on City Utility Bills (PDF)” and mail or drop it off along with copies of all tax returns, schedules and supporting documentation for all members of your household to: City of Bellingham Finance Department, City Hall, 210 Lottie Street, Bellingham, WA 98225.
Customers receiving rate reductions are required to notify the Finance Department immediately when household income level changes, disabled status changes, the house is sold, or the house is no longer the primary residence. The Finance Department mails renewal applications annually to verify income and eligibility for continued reduced rates.
