Income-eligible customers are encouraged to apply for monthly discounts

Aqua Illinois, an Essential Utilities company, today launched its new Customer Assistance Program (CAP) to help income-eligible customers save on water and wastewater bills. Qualifying customers can receive a 70% discount on their water and wastewater usage. The year-round program will be administered in partnership with Dollar Energy Fund (DEF).

“We are proud to introduce this new program to support our Illinois customers facing financial challenges,” said Rita Black, Director of Community Assistance Programs. “Sometimes we all need a helping hand, and this program is designed to do just that. We strongly encourage customers who may qualify to learn more about the program and apply today."

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility is based on household income. Customers can use the income calculator to check their eligibility status and reference the income guidelines* below:

*Income before taxes.

How to Apply:

Applying for CAP is quick and easy. Customers can:

• Visit the CAP page on Aqua’s website to learn more about the program
• Visit the DEF website to complete their application
• Call 1-888-282-6816 for assistance.

This new program is available to low-income eligible customers through a low-income tariff approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission. Aqua has multiple additional programs to support customers in need. Visit AquaWater.com to learn more.

About Aqua Illinois

Aqua Illinois serves approximately 280,000 people in 14 counties throughout Illinois. Visit AquaWater.com for more information or follow @MyAquaWater on Facebook and X.

About Essential

Essential Utilities, Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) delivers safe, clean, reliable services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and entire communities. With a focus on water, wastewater and natural gas, Essential is committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status. We are advocates for the communities we serve and are dedicated stewards of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout our footprint.

Operating as the Aqua and Peoples brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across nine states. Essential is one of the most significant publicly traded water, wastewater service and natural gas providers in the U.S. Learn more at www.essential.co.

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