The East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) is committed to supporting its community, and one key way they do this is through the Ebmud Care Program, also known as the Customer Assistance Program (CAP). This program is designed to help eligible low-income residential customers and homeless shelters manage their water bills. Since 1987, EBMUD has been making a difference by offering this vital assistance.
EBMUD Care Program for Residential Customers
For residents struggling to afford their water bills, the EBMUD Care Program provides significant financial relief.
Who is Eligible for Residential Assistance?
To qualify for the residential EBMUD Care Program, certain criteria must be met:
- The dwelling must be a single-family unit with its own water meter and be the applicant’s primary residence.
- Applicants must meet specific income guidelines based on household size. The table below outlines the maximum gross annual household income limits:
| Number of Persons in Household | Maximum Gross Annual Household Income |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | $62,300 or less |
| 3 | $70,100 or less |
| 4 | $77,850 or less |
| 5 | $84,100 or less |
| 6* | $90,350 or less |
| * For each additional household member, add $6,250 to the gross annual income limit. |
What Benefits Do Residential Customers Receive?
Eligible residential customers in the EBMUD Care Program receive substantial discounts:
- Water Service Charge Discount: A 50 percent reduction on the standard bimonthly service charge.
- Home Water Use Discount: A 50 percent reduction on water usage charges, up to 1,050 gallons per person per month.
- Wastewater Service Discount: A 35 percent discount on EBMUD wastewater service charges and flow charges.
Participation in the residential program is valid for two years, after which participants must reapply to continue receiving assistance. It’s important to note that the program is not retroactive, so timely application is crucial.
EBMUD Care Program for Homeless Shelters
Recognizing the critical role homeless shelters play in the community, EBMUD extends its Care Program to these organizations as well.
Eligibility for Homeless Shelters
Homeless shelters seeking to participate in the EBMUD Care Program must meet the following requirements:
- The organization’s primary function must be providing lodging and meals.
- Shelters must possess the necessary City or County Health Department permits.
- A minimum of six beds must be available, and the shelter must operate for at least 180 days or nights per year.
- Government-owned facilities are not eligible; however, satellite facilities under a main organization’s name can apply separately.
- The organization must have IRS tax-exempt status under IRS Code 501(c)(3), and the water account must be registered under the organization’s name with this tax exemption.
Benefits for Homeless Shelters
Eligible homeless shelters enrolled in the EBMUD Care Program receive:
- Meter Charge Discount: A 50 percent discount on the meter charge, based on meter size.
- Water Usage Discount: A 50 percent discount on water usage per client, up to 1,050 gallons per person per month.
- Wastewater Service Discount: A 35 percent discount on EBMUD wastewater service charges and flow charges.
Participation for homeless shelters is for a maximum of one year, with annual reapplications required. Shelters must also demonstrate how the program subsidy has benefited their clients during the reapplication process.
How to Apply for the EBMUD Care Program
Applying for the EBMUD Care Program is straightforward. EBMUD offers multiple convenient ways to submit your application:
- Apply Online: The quickest method is to apply online. Click here to access the online application.
- Download and Submit Application: You can download the application form and return it via mail, email, or fax. Application forms and brochures in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese are available for download.
- Phone Assistance: For questions or assistance, call (510) 287-0468 during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.).
- In-Person Application Pickup: You can pick up a physical application form at the EBMUD Customer Information Desk located at 375 11th St., Oakland (ground floor).
Completed applications and required documentation should be submitted to:
Email: [email protected]
Mail: EBMUD P.O. Box 24055 MS 105 (CAP) Oakland, CA 94623
Fax: (510) 287-0299
The EBMUD Care Program is a valuable resource for those who qualify, helping to ensure access to affordable water services. Don’t hesitate to apply if you believe you are eligible for this assistance.
