Many people in our region are facing affordability challenges. At the same time, the cost of providing utility services, including electricity, water, sewer, and garbage, continues to rise.
The Utility Discount Program, administered by the Human Services Department, helps income-qualified customers lower their monthly utility bills. Through the program, qualified residential customers receive:
- 60% off future City Light electricity bills
- 50% off future Seattle Public Utilities water, sewer, and garbage bills
On average, customers can save $120 to $205 each month through the Utility Discount Program.
Expanding Income Eligibility
Starting in January 2027, the City of Seattle is increasing the income eligibility limits for the Utility Discount Program to better reflect the cost of living in our region. All households earning less than 60 percent of the area median income — for 2026, this is $66,000 a year for a single person and $94,260 for a family of four — will now qualify following an expansion of income eligibility passed this summer by the Seattle City Council. The change will offer assistance to nearly 30% more customers, or more than 31,000 additional households.
As the program administrator, HSD manages applications and enrollment for the Utility Discount Program. In 2025, the total amount of assistance received by customers through UDP discounts equaled $50.1 million. Earlier this year, HSD successfully closed out a backlog of 3,500 applications and increased new net enrollment by 300% as compared to the same timeframe in 2025.
As the Utility Discount Program grows, HSD is committed to ensuring everyone who qualifies can access the benefit. Together with our community partners, we are strengthening our outreach strategy and looking for new ways to make it easier for residents to get the help they need. Recently, these efforts have included partnering with food banks, affordable housing facilities, and other organizations to streamline the enrollment process and remove barriers for eligible residents.
To check and see if you already qualify for the Utility Discount Program, visit this City of Seattle utility assistance website and enter your information.
Emergency Bill Assistance Is Also Expanding
Customers may also qualify for emergency assistance with their utility bills.
City Light offers $710 or more towards past due electric bills. Plus, an additional $250 credit through Project Share.
Seattle Public Utilities offers $537 or more towards current water, sewer, and garbage bills.
We are also expanding the income criteria for our emergency bill assistance programs to 80% of Area Median Income. This will help more customers access support when they need it most.
Payment Plans Are Available to All Customers
Customers who need more time to pay their utility bill can set up a payment plan.
Payment plans are available to all customers and provide more time to pay down a balance in smaller, more manageable payments.
Additional Affordability Resources
Customers may also qualify for state or federal energy assistance programs.
The City of Seattle also offers an Assistance and Discounts resource to help people find ways to save money on utilities, internet, housing, food, and more.
As utility rates change, the City of Seattle will continue to look for ways to help keep essential services accessible for everyone.