Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington Utilities is expanding its Financial Assistance Program in an effort to better serve residents who are struggling to keep up with utility bills. City officials say the updated program is designed to remove barriers, add flexibility, and ensure more households can maintain access to essential water services during periods of financial hardship.
In 2025, CBU set aside $100,000 each year to support the Financial Assistance Program. While the funding was available, participation did not reach expected levels. After reviewing how the program was being used, the utility identified areas where changes could make assistance easier to access and more responsive to real-life challenges faced by customers.
One of the most significant updates involves how assistance can be received over time. Previously, customers who qualified for direct payment assistance were required to pay two full utility bills after every three months of support before they could receive help again. Under the revised program, that gap has been removed. Customers may now receive assistance consecutively, as long as they reapply and continue to meet eligibility requirements.
CBU also adjusted when customers can apply for help. In the past, residents had to seek assistance before their service was shut off, which often left people without options once a disconnection occurred. That requirement has now been eliminated. Eligible customers may apply for assistance even after service has been disconnected, as long as they meet the program’s requirements to have their service restored.
The Financial Assistance Program offers more than just bill payments. It includes flexible payment options, income-based bill support, and referrals to community partners who provide additional aid. The goal, officials say, is to meet customers where they are and connect them with the right resources as early as possible.
All applicants are required to first apply through the South Central Community Action Program. Applications are available online through the city’s Civiform portal, where residents can be screened for water assistance and related support services. Those who do not qualify through SCCAP may still be eligible for direct financial assistance if their total annual household income is at or below 300 percent of the current Federal Poverty Guidelines.
City leaders emphasized that access to water is a basic need, not a luxury. “Access to clean, reliable water is essential, and these changes are designed to improve that access,” said CBU Director Katherine Zaiger. “I’m hopeful they will encourage more residents to take advantage of our assistance program.”
The updates reflect a broader effort by City of Bloomington Utilities to strengthen its connection with the community and respond to changing economic conditions. Officials encourage customers to reach out as soon as they begin experiencing difficulty paying their bills, rather than waiting until the situation worsens.
By expanding eligibility and removing rigid rules, CBU hopes more residents will feel comfortable applying for help and using the full range of assistance available. Utility representatives noted that early communication can often prevent service interruptions and reduce stress for households already facing financial pressure.
Residents interested in learning more about the Financial Assistance Program can find detailed information on the City of Bloomington’s website or contact CBU Customer Service directly at 812-349-3930. City officials say the expanded program is one step toward ensuring no resident is left without access to vital utility services due to temporary financial hardship.
