South Bend Water Works to resume water shutoffs

South Bend’s city government says that it will resume water shutoffs starting in December.

After pausing water shutoffs and late fees due to the COVID-19 pandemic since March 2020, the city of South Bend says that it will proceed with shutoffs in December 2022. Anyone enrolled in a payment plan and making payments is exempt from shutoffs. The city recently expanded the Utility Assistance Program to include renters.

The city provided more details via a press release:

Payment programs, such as extensions and payment plans, are available through South Bend Municipal Utilities in addition to assistance programs that could help pay off past due balances. If customers receive a disconnection notice and are unable to make payment prior to the specified shut off date, they should set up a payment plan online at utilities.southbendin.gov, in-person at the Utilities office at 125 W. Colfax Ave. or call 311.

The City is also encouraging customers who qualify for the City’s Utility Assistance Program (UAP) to apply immediately to help lower balances on future bills. UAP can lower water and sewer bills by up to $25.50 every month if customers meet income guidelines and receive sewer service from the city. This program is open to homeowners and tenants. For more information or to apply, visit southbendin.gov/support.

Utility customers can pay their bill online at utilities.southbendin.gov, via phone at 574.235.9236 or in-person at the Utilities office, located at 125 W. Colfax Ave.

Assistance is available

Low-income households can qualify for assistance from a variety of different local nonprofits including REAL Services and Catholic Charities. We have provided links to the programs below:

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