Free Utility Bill Help in San Antonio (2026): CPS Energy, SAWS & More
Behind on your CPS Energy or SAWS bill? A shutoff notice doesn’t have to mean a shutoff. These are the verified 2026 programs that help San Antonio families pay utility bills — who may qualify and how to apply.
1. REAP — up to $400/year off your CPS Energy bill
The Residential Energy Assistance Partnership (REAP) is a nonprofit foundation that helps struggling families pay utility bills year-round — and it’s the best-known CPS Energy assistance program in the city.
- What it covers: up to $400 per year in CPS Energy bill credits — you can apply twice a year (once per heating/cooling season)
- Who may qualify: San Antonio or Bexar County residents with income at or below 125% of federal poverty guidelines, plus at least one of: age 60 or older, a disability, children under 16 in the home, or critical-care medical equipment
- What you’ll need: proof of income, proof of hardship, and household size
- How to apply: through the City of San Antonio Department of Health and Human Services utility assistance application
- Bonus: approved households also get connected to CPS Energy weatherization, energy-efficiency, and senior aid programs
2. Project WARM
Project WARM is another CPS Energy customer assistance program, administered through the city and county. One rule to know: you can receive aid from either REAP or Project WARM once per year — not both — so apply to the one you qualify for first. Ask CPS Energy or the city’s human services department which fits your situation.
3. CPS Energy affordability discounts
Beyond crisis aid, CPS Energy offers ongoing discounts on the monthly service charge for residential customers with income at or below 125% of federal poverty guidelines who meet program criteria. This isn’t a one-time credit — it lowers every bill. Call CPS Energy and ask about the affordability discount program; many eligible customers never apply because they don’t know it exists.
4. SAWS water bill help
Struggling with the water bill specifically? SAWS (San Antonio Water System) offers payment arrangements and assistance options for customers facing hardship. Contact SAWS directly to ask about payment plans and any current assistance programs before an account falls too far behind.
5. Statewide backup: Texas energy assistance
Texas also runs a large statewide energy assistance program — we cover it in detail in our guide to free Texas energy assistance. If local programs are tapped out, check whether the state program can help.
What to have ready before you call
- Your most recent CPS Energy and/or SAWS bill — account number and past-due amount
- Proof of income — pay stubs, Social Security or SSI letter, unemployment statement
- Proof of hardship — job loss, medical bills, or whatever changed your finances
- Household info — who’s in the home, ages, any disability or critical-care equipment
- Apply before disconnection. Most programs help faster when the lights are still on — a shutoff notice is the trigger, not the shutoff itself
Utility trouble rarely travels alone
Our free Apply for Me program reviews your situation against 25+ San Antonio-area benefit programs — rent help, food assistance, health coverage — and sends you a personalized guide of potential matches, free. You apply to every program yourself.
Want more San Antonio help like this? Get our free weekly newsletter — benefits news, deadlines, and free local resources every week. Program details verified October 2026; funding and eligibility can change — confirm when you apply.
