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Local residents, small businesses facing past-due utility bills can now apply for relief

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Posted at 4:57 PM, Dec 21, 2020
and last updated 2020-12-21 16:57:49-05

HAMPTON ROADS, Va. - Local residents and small business owners who are facing past-due utility bills because of COVID-19 can now apply for a relief fund.

Through the federal CARES Act, Hampton Roads water and wastewater utilities are providing assistance through the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Municipal Utility Relief Program.

They will provide assistance to residents and businesses with COVID-related overdue balances until Jan. 27 or until the funding runs out.

Application deadlines may vary, so residents should act quickly and check here for the deadlines.

“We are urging qualifying Hampton Roads residents and small business owners to apply for this funding today, not tomorrow,” said Edward G. Henifin, general manager of Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD). “The process is quick and easy, but the funds are only available for a limited time.”

People with overdue direct charges occurring between March 1 - Dec. 30, 2020 for water and wastewater utility bills are eligible for assistance.

To qualify, residents must be able to self-certify they have experienced COVID-related issues that have caused economic hardship such as: job layoffs; job loss due to employment closings; reduction in work hours; staying home to care for children due to daycare and school closings; or lost child or spousal support.

Those who have been unable to work or missed work due to contracting COVID-19; unable to find work due to COVID-19; or unable to participate in their previous employment due to a high risk of severe illness.

Applicants can verbally apply by phone or they can submit an online application depending on city.