The City of Bloomington Utilities is expanding its Financial Assistance Program to better support residents facing financial hardship. The program will have a $100,000 annual budget in 2025, with updates aimed at improving access, continuity, and use of previously unspent funds.
The program’s assistance structure has also changed. Customers no longer have to pay two bills after a three-month assistance period before reapplying. Instead, eligible residents may receive consecutive assistance as long as they continue to meet program requirements, according to the City of Bloomington.
In addition, customers no longer need to apply before their service is disrupted. Those who qualify can now seek assistance even after a utility disconnection.
CBU offers multiple payment options, partnerships with community assistance programs, and income-based bill support for eligible residents. All applications are processed through the South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP), which requires a formal application for water assistance.
Residents with incomes at or below 300 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify for direct financial aid. CBU Director Katherine Zaiger noted that the changes aim to improve access to clean, reliable water and encouraged residents experiencing difficulty with utility payments to apply early.
More information on the expanded financial assistance program is available on the CBU website. Customers can contact CBU Customer Service at 812-349-3930 with questions or for assistance.
