East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) customers who have been struggling financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic will soon get some relief on their water bill thanks to nearly $10 million in funding from the State Board’s California Water and Wastewater Arrerage Payment Program, which derive from federal funds.
Starting later this month, EBMUD will apply a credit directly to eligible customer accounts within 60 days that will cover drinking water debt accrued between March 4, 2020 and June 15, 2021, the district said.
Eligible customers will receive a letter notifying them of the credit amount.
The relief fund covers a portion of debt, so customers are encouraged to call EBMUD to make payment arrangements for any unpaid balance. Call EBMUD at 1-866-403-2683 Monday-Friday, between 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
EBMUD also offers a Customer Assistance Program that provides a 50 percent credit on water bills and 35 percent credit on wastewater bills, as well as payment plans for account balances. For more information, visit www.ebmud.com/cap.
“This funding will go a long way to help East Bay customers,” said Andrew Lee, EBMUD Director of Customer and Community Services. “The pandemic highlighted the importance of water in protecting our community and preserving public health. We know the financial struggles are real and we’re making every effort to support our customers in need.”
