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​ 1. Learn about this resource. DC Government employees can receive EagleBank’s employee interest rate discount on their home mortgage. The exact interest rate depends on your credit score and finances, and the discount can be used to buy or refinance a home. This program is called Work in DC. Buy in DC. and is offered by EagleBank, a community bank in the DC metro area. EagleBank also offers home buying seminars at DC agencies and other financial literacy seminars, aimed to provide a convenient learning experience at your job site. ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if all of these statements are true: You are a current DC Government employee. You own or are purchasing a home within DC. ​ You do not need to be a full-time DC Government employee to apply for the program. get a lower interest rate on your mortgage as a DC Government employee? DO YOU WANT TO 3. Apply. Contact EagleBank to set up a meeting with a loan officer . Pick whomever you’d like or email homeloans@eaglebankcorp.com to be assigned an officer. From here, the process is similar to how you’d apply for any other type of mortgage. During your meeting, the loan officer will help you find the right mortgage product for your needs. You’ll want to be prepared to share some information about your income, your house price range, and intended down payment. No documentation is necessary for this conversation. The loan officer will also give you an unofficial mortgage rate for you to consider. Be sure to talk with your loan officer about the most appropriate time to apply, considering where you are in the homebuying or refinance process and when it would be best to pull your credit score. If you are interested in an official quote, the loan officer will ask you to submit an online application on the EagleBank website and share your financial documents (paystubs, bank statements, etc.) to run a credit report. You can apply at any time. 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? If you are pre-approved, a pre-approval letter will be sent via email as early as the day you apply. Within one and three days, the loan officer will email you a formal loan offer. The offer will be good for 90 days while you search for a home or make a decision to refinance. If you are not approved, you will be notified by the loan officer via email. Your loan officer can offer advice on reapplying when your credit and/or finances improve. Are there any additional requirements that I should know about? You should keep in mind that you must make regularly scheduled payments, as you would with any mortgage. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to EagleBank at 202-292-1568 from 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Or, you can email the team at homeloans@eaglebankcorp.com using the subject line “DC Government Home Loans” and tell them you are a DC Government employee. I still need help with my mortgage. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that might help you prepare to buy a home on our resource page as well as on our pay my mortgage resource page . Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC Government? No. The Reduced Mortgage Rate Program is run by EagleBank. What kind of loans can I get through EagleBank? EagleBank can provide conventional, VA loans (for active military, veterans, and military spouses), Federal Housing Administration (FHA), and Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Rehab loans. EagleBank also provides Federal Home Loan Bank grants for first-time home buyers. Can I use EagleBank’s Reduced Mortgage Rate Program along with other programs? Yes. You can use DC Open Doors , Landed (for DC school teachers and staff), the Home Purchase Assistance Program , and the Employer Assisted Housing Program in addition to EagleBank’s options. Do all eligible applicants receive the discount? Yes, as long as you are approved for a loan based on your financials and credit history. Keywords: reduced interest rates, home mortgage, DC Government employee, home buying, refinancing. discount, lower interest rates, government employee, DC employee benefits This page was last updated April 2021. ​

​ 1. Learn about this resource. Residents have the right to request that we—the DC Government—take another look at their property value assessment. Every year we conduct assessments to update our estimate of every home’s market value as of January 1. This value is used to calculate how much is owed in property tax on that home . After we conduct the assessments, we mail Notices of Assessment in February, but you can always access the current assessment at My Tax DC . If you disagree with the property value assessment, you can request an appeal. This process is called the Real Property Assessment and Appeals Process and is run by the DC Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR). ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if you are responsible for paying the property taxes on a DC property . You do not need to live in DC to appeal the property value assessment. The property could be a residential property, business, nonprofit, or religious institution. appeal your property value assessment? DO YOU WANT TO 3. Appeal. Complete an administrative appeal form . On the form, you’ll be given the choice to either meet in-person with your assessor, have a phone call with your assessor, or to have your assessor review your appeal without speaking with you. Attach any documentation you have to support your reasoning. This could be an independent appraisal of your home, property values of neighboring homes that are similar to yours (reference the DC Real Property Assessment Database for values), and/or a written justification of your reasoning. Mail your completed form and supporting documents to the Office of Tax and Revenue, Real Property Tax Admin. - Appeals Section, P.O. Box 71440, Washington, D.C. 20024 or submit them online once you've created an account on MyTax DC . If you choose to speak with your appraiser, they will reach out within 10 business days to schedule a time to talk. You can appeal from the day you received your assessment notice up to April 1 (postmarked by) of each year. 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? Your meeting with the assessor will be about 15 minutes. During that time, you’ll explain your reasoning for appealing and talk through your supporting documents. You have the option not to meet with your assessor and instead, they will make their decision based on the documents you submit. Within about 10 business days from your meeting/submission, the assessor will mail a Decision Notice with their conclusion. Depending on the volume of appeals you should receive a Decision Notice no later than August 1 (postmarked by). Your new property value assessment will be reflected in your September bill. If you are satisfied with the decision, there is nothing more you need to do. The updated property value will be reflected in DC Government records. If you are not satisfied with the decision, you can begin a second level appeal with the Real Property Tax Appeal Commission (RPTAC), an independent body. Your Decision Notice will include information on how to request a hearing. (You can find out more about what happens at a hearing below.) In a typical year, about 2% of properties (residential and commercial) will request a second level appeal. If you are not satisfied with RPTAC’s decision you can move to a third and final appeal level with the DC Superior Court. In a typical year about 800 properties will request a third level appeal. The vast majority are commercial properties. Are there any additional requirements I should know about? No. Filing the appeal on time is most important. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to our Real Property Tax Administration at 202-442-6796 , Monday to Friday, 8:15 am to 5:30 pm. Or, you can email the team at property.appeal@dc.gov using the subject line “Residential Property Assessment Appeal.” Be prepared with your property’s Square Suffix Lot (SSL) and the property owner’s name. The caller must be the property owner or an authorized representative. I still need help paying my property taxes. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that might help you save on taxes on our resource page . Frequently Asked Questions What happens at the second level appeal with RPTAC? At a second level appeal, you and your DC Government assessor will appear before a three-person RPTAC panel sometime between late August and December. During this hearing, both you and the DC Government assessor will have the chance to share documentation that backs up your assessment of the property’s value. The panel will ask you clarifying questions and take notes. After about 20 business days, RPTAC will then mail you and your assessor a decision with their rationale and any changes to the property value will be reflected in DC Government’s records. What happens at the third level appeal with the DC Superior Court? A third level appeal follows a similar process as RPTAC, but in a courtroom setting. Can I have someone else represent me at the appeal(s)? Yes. You are welcome to have anyone (e.g. family member, friend, or lawyer) represent you at any level of appeal. You will need to sign an Agent Authorization form granting us—the DC Government—the ability to talk with that person about your appeal. Having a representative is not required. If I appeal, am I prevented from appealing again in the future? No. Each year is independent from the previous ones. You always have the right to appeal the annual property assessment. Who is my assessor? An assessor is assigned to your property. This is the person who comes up with the dollar value of your property each year and is the person you will interact with if you choose to appeal. Their name is included on your home’s listing in the DC Real Property Assessment Database . Just search your address to find their name. Is the appeal process the same for commercial properties? Yes. The appeal process is the same. Do all eligible applicants get the chance to appeal? Yes. All property owners have the right to appeal DC Government’s assessment, however, this does not guarantee a change to your assessment. In a typical year about 4.5% of property assessments (residential and commercial) are appealed. This resource is provided by: Keywords: homeowners, right to appeal, annual property value assessment, paying property taxes, lower my property taxes, reconsider, reexamine, retry, homeownership This page was last updated March 2021. ​

​ 1. Learn about this resource. Renters or property owners can get financial assistance for a security camera system. We—DC Government—offer a rebate after you pay for and install a security camera system on the exterior of a property in DC. The rebate covers the cost of the cameras, up to $200 each. You can receive a rebate for more than one camera, for a total rebate of up to $500 for residential properties , such as houses, townhouses, and apartment buildings, and up to $750 for non-residential properties , such as businesses, nonprofits, and religious institutions. This program is called the Private Security Camera Rebate Program and is offered by the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants. ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if all of these statements are true: You rent or own a property in DC. (You can live outside DC, as long as the property you’re applying for is in DC. The property could be a residential property, business, nonprofit, or religious institution.) You purchased and installed a security camera system outside the property you rent or own in DC on or after September 22, 2015. ​ If you do live in DC and receive certain types of public assistance, you may be eligible to receive a free security camera system and installation at your home in DC. get a rebate for a security camera you've installed? DO YOU WANT TO 3. Apply. If you have not already, purchase and install an eligible camera system (see additional requirements below) on the exterior of the property you rent or own. The system must include enough storage for 48 hours of footage, which may be an additional purchase for some systems. If you rent the property, get a letter or email from your landlord with their permission to install a camera. Register your camera(s) online with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). This means that MPD may request recorded footage from you to assist with an investigation, but you are not required to provide the footage. Once you register, you’ll receive an automated confirmation email from the registration system with a log number. Gather the receipts for your camera(s), your log number from MPD, and if you’re a renter, the letter from your landlord with permission to install the camera(s). If your camera system requires cloud-based storage, you’ll also need to provide documentation that you’re paying for the storage. If you had a professional install the camera system for you, you may also include a receipt from the business that installed it for you. (It’s not required, but if they include photos of the installed camera(s) with the receipt, we can process your application more quickly). Complete the online application . You need to create an account before you can start the application form. You can also apply by calling (202) 727-5124 , Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. You can apply at any time. 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? You’ll receive an automated confirmation email after you submit your application. You may need to check your junk or spam folder for the email. If you don’t receive an email, contact us—the DC Government—at security.cameras@dc.gov or (202) 727-5124 to confirm that your application was submitted. We will visit in-person to verify that your camera system is installed. (You do not need to be home for this visit, we only check the exterior of your property. (If you had your camera system installed by a professional and included a receipt with photos of the installed camera(s) with your application, we don’t need to inspect it in-person.) Once we verify that your camera system is installed, we’ll send you a confirmation email with details on your rebate. It may take up to 45 business days to get your rebate check in the mail. If you are not approved, we will let you know by email within 45 business days of when you applied. If you’re not approved because the cameras weren’t installed properly or your application was missing information, you can apply again once you resolve the issue. Are there any additional requirements I should know about? If you are a renter, you must provide proof that your landlord or property owner approves the installation of the camera. Security cameras must be installed on the outside of your home or property. All cameras must: Be weatherproof Meet technical and video quality requirements, including at least: 1 megapixel and 1280x720 digital resolution or 640X480 analog resolution Standard video quality 5 frames per second Store footage for a minimum of 48 hours, or two days Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants at (202) 727-5124 , Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Or, you can email the team at security.cameras@dc.gov using the subject line “Rebate Program.” I still need help making my home safer. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that might help on our home safety resources page . Frequently Asked Questions Can I submit an application before I buy a camera system? No. The application for the rebate requires proof that you’ve already bought the camera system. You should first buy, install, and register the camera system (following the instructions to apply). Do I have to purchase a specific type of security camera system? We don’t require a specific security camera system type or model, but the camera system you choose must meet some criteria (outlined in the additional requirements above). I purchased my camera system on a payment plan. Can I apply for a rebate? You can apply for the rebate after you’ve fully paid for your camera system. Where should the security camera(s) be installed? The cameras need to be installed on the outside of the building. Do I need to schedule an appointment for the camera inspection? No appointment is needed. Since the camera is located on the outside of your home or property, you do not need to be at the site inspection. Will the rebate cover installation of the system and other costs? No, the rebate only covers the cost of the cameras and the sales tax. The costs of installation, accessories, and storage are not covered. I already received a rebate for a security camera system. Can I apply again? If you received less than the maximum rebate ($500 for residential properties and $750 for non-residential properties), you can add a camera to your system and follow the instructions to apply for the rebate again to cover the new camera. You can also apply for a different property that you rent or own in DC and haven't received a rebate or voucher for a camera system. How can I submit my application if I don’t have a computer? There are several locations throughout the city that provide access to computers where you could submit your application online. You can also text the word “FIND” to 83224 or call (202) CONNECT or (202) 266-6328 . You can also apply by calling (202) 727-5124 , Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Does the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) have access to the footage from the cameras? You must register your camera system with the MPD to receive a rebate. MPD will not have access to live video from the camera. They can request access to recorded footage, but you are not required to provide the footage. I want to apply for a condo building. Who should submit the application? If you want to apply for a condo building, we encourage you to ask your condo board to submit the application. Do all eligible applicants get the rebate? No, funding for this program is offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Last year, all eligible applicants to the program received a rebate. This resource is provided by: Keywords: rebate, reimbursement, security camera system, homeowners, renters, business owners, nonprofits, community-based organizations, churches, temples, mosques, house of worship, apartment buildings, surveillance, safety, theft ​ This page was last updated February 2021. ​

get a rebate for planting a tree on your property? DO YOU WANT TO ​ 1. Learn about this resource. Residents can receive a rebate when they plant shade trees on a residential or commercial property in DC. Shade trees hold rainwater in the soil, reducing polluted water from getting into our rivers. We—DC Government—offer a one-time rebate of $50-100 per tree up to the cost of your tree (not including tax and shipping). The amount of your rebate depends on the type of tree you plant. You can receive a rebate for up to 25 trees per property . This program is called RiverSmart Rebates and is offered by the Department of Energy & Environment, in partnership with Casey Trees, a local nonprofit. ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if you own or rent a residential or commercial building in DC. If you rent your home, you’ll need to ask your landlord for permission to plant a tree. You don’t need to live in DC to apply, as long as the property you’re applying for is in DC. 3. Apply. Buy a tree that will grow to be at least 15 feet tall and wide. Avoid these types of trees that we’ve rejected in the past, they’re harmful to our ecosystem, too small, or vulnerable to pests. Keep your receipt. Submit an online application and attach your receipt. You can apply within one year of the date on the receipt for your tree. You can apply for the rebate any time of year, but keep in mind that the best times to plant a tree are spring and fall. 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? Casey Trees will reach out if your application is incomplete and ask for the necessary documentation If funds are available right away, Casey Trees will mail you a check for your rebate at the address in your application within 2-6 weeks. If funds aren’t available when you apply, you’ll receive your rebate when funds become available (usually in November of each year). You water your tree regularly, especially in the summer, and mulch your tree twice a year. Your tree will need to be pruned as it grows. Follow the tree care guide . If you are not approved, we will let you know by email within two weeks of your application. Are there any additional requirements I should know about? We—DC Government—don’t offer rebates for some types of trees: Trees that won’t grow to 15 feet tall and wide, including varieties of crape myrtle, Japanese Maple, and some ‘weeping’ trees Trees that aren’t native to our ecosystem and are known to cause harm to the environment, also known as invasive species Species of Ash, because they’re currently dying at high rates due to a beetle, called the Emerald Ash Borer, that feeds on them In the past, we have denied rebates for these specific varieties . Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to our local partner Casey Trees at (202) 833-4010 . Or you can email us at treerebate@caseytrees.org with the subject line “Tree Rebate Question”. If you would like to talk to someone in DC Government about the program, please reach out to our RiverSmart Homes team at (202) 535-2252 , Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Or, you can email us at riversmarthomes@dc.gov using the subject line “Tree Rebate Question.” I still need help making my home more environmentally friendly. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that help make your home more environmentally friendly . Frequently Asked Questions How is my rebate calculated? The amount of your rebate depends on the type of tree you plant. If you plant a tree species, like oak and hickory, that has a larger canopy and offers more environmental benefits, you’ll get a $100 rebate. For most other species, you’ll get a $50 rebate, with some exceptions listed below. Can I get a rebate for a tree planted on the street? No, we don’t offer rebates for trees planted in public space, including between the sidewalk and street. However, you can request that a tree be planted on a street near you by calling 311. I don’t know how to plant a tree. What should I do? Planting a tree properly is simple, but you’ll need to prepare. Doing so will ensure your tree thrives once it is in the ground. Learn more about how to plant a tree properly on Casey Trees’s website. Can I get help planting my tree or installing other qualifying green projects, like a rain barrel or rain garden? Maybe! Our RiverSmart Homes program reduced prices and installation assistance for rain barrels, trees, rain gardens, and bayscaping. You may be eligible if you own a single-family home (or a building with four or fewer units). You don’t pay anything to plant a tree with RiverSmart Homes , and the program offers 17 tree options. RiverSmart Rebates is open to any property owner, including residential, commercial, and community space. It might be a better fit for you than RiverSmart Homes if you prefer to: choose a tree variety not offered by RiverSmart Homes avoid long wait times to have your tree planted I’d like to get a rebate for other green projects, like a rain barrel or rain garden. What should I do? When you install qualifying green projects on your own or with an installer you choose, you can receive a rebate from us—DC Government. The eligibility criteria, application process, and amount of rebate vary depending on the type of project, and you may need to apply before installation. You can learn more about the projects we offer rebates for: Rain barrels to catch and store rain to use later to water your garden or wash your car Green roofs to support the growth of plants that retain rainwater Permeable surfaces to capture and temporarily store rainwater instead of a regular asphalt or concrete surface Rain gardens or another engineered garden system to filter pollution out of rainwater Can I get any other financial assistance for planting a tree? Yes! When you apply for this program, we’ll help you apply for a discount on your DC Water bill, called RiverSmart Rewards . This discount is for property owners who prevent runoff on their property with qualifying green projects, like shade trees. How do these green projects help the city of DC? Green projects, like rain barrels, rain gardens, and shade trees, help reduce the amount of polluted rainwater running off your property and into your rivers. This helps us protect the Anacostia River, Potomac River, and Rock Creek from harmful pollution. Can I try to reapply for the program if I am not approved? Yes. You can reapply for a rebate if you believe changes to your situation might make you eligible. If you’re approved but funds aren’t available when you apply, you don’t need to reapply. We’ll mail you your rebate when funds become available (usually in November of each year). Do all eligible applicants receive the rebate? Yes. As long as you follow our guidelines on choosing and planting a tree , you’ll get a rebate for up to 25 trees per property. This resource is provided by: Keywords: landscaping, homeowners, renters, business owners, nonprofits, community-based organizations, churches, temples, mosques, apartment buildings, reimbursement, polluted water, sustainability, refund, discount, green home, plant tree, tree planting This page was last updated May 2021. ​

get a rebate for replacing concrete or asphalt with permeable pavers or vegetation? DO YOU WANT TO ​ 1. Learn about this resource. Property owners can receive a rebate for replacing concrete, asphalt, or brick with permeable pavers or vegetation at a residential building, commercial building, or community space in target areas in DC (blue on this map ). Permeable surfaces capture and temporarily store rain to reduce polluted water from getting into our rivers. We—DC Government—offer a one-time rebate of $5 per square foot of the surface that you're replacing with vegetation and $10 per square foot replaced with permeable pavers. You can receive up to $4,000 and not more than the cost of your project. This program is called RiverSmart Rebates and is offered by the Department of Energy & Environment, in partnership with Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, a local nonprofit. ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if all of these statements are true: You own a residential building, commercial building, house of worship, or community space in DC. Your property is in DC’s municipal storm sewer system. Search your address on this map , and if it’s on a block in blue, your property is eligible for the program. If your building needs to meet local stormwater management requirements, your project goes beyond what you’re required to do. If you’re not sure, contact Carly Starobin ( cstarobin@allianceforthebay.org ) for more information on your eligibility. You don’t need to live in DC to apply, as long as the property you’re applying for is in DC. 3. Apply. Start by figuring out if you’d like to install vegetation or permeable pavers. You’ll need to consider what the area is used for and how large it is. If you have any questions about the best option for your property, contact Carly Starobin ( cstarobin@allianceforthebay.org ) at the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, our local nonprofit partner, for help! Take “before” photos of the original surface to include in your application, following the photo tips in our permeable surfaces guide . Select a contractor or landscaper. If you’re installing permeable pavers, you can pick any contractor who has completed a similar project and a specialized training called “PICP certification.” We offer a list of contractors familiar with the rebate program . If you’re installing vegetation, you have the option of working with any landscaper or doing the project yourself. Test the location you selected to see how quickly water drains from the soil. This is called a percolation test (or for short, perc test). Complete the perc test worksheet in your application. If you’re working with a contractor, they can help with this step. Prepare a design sketch and an itemized budget. Your design must meet the requirements outlined in our permeable surfaces guide . You can use the sample itemized invoice worksheet in the application packet for your budget. If you’re working with a contractor, they should help with this step. You can attach their proposal to the application instead of completing the design and invoice sections. Complete the application form and maintenance agreement . We also include a form in the application packet for you to apply for a discount on your DC Water bill, called RiverSmart Rewards . If you’re installing over 1,200 square feet of permeable pavers, you’ll also need to fill out a supplemental worksheet . Submit your completed application, maintenance agreement, perc test worksheet, itemized invoice, and before photos. You can email the application to Carly Starobin at the Alliance ( cstarobin@allianceforthebay.org ) or mail to: Carly Starobin Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay 729 8th Street SE, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20003 You should apply and wait for approval before installing your project to make sure it meets all of the requirements listed in our permeable surfaces guide . We will still consider your application if you submit it up to one year after your project is installed. However, if it doesn’t meet all of the requirements listed in our permeable surfaces guide , it is not eligible for a rebate. 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? Within 1-3 weeks, Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay (the Alliance, for short) will review your application. They’ll email or call you to schedule a time to inspect the location where you plan to install the permeable surface. If you already had an inspection through the RiverSmart Homes program, you don’t need another inspection. After the Alliance approves your application, install the permeable surface yourself or with your contractor. It’s optional, but you can take photos of the installation process to include with your project completion form (see step #5). Keep track of any invoices or receipts for Step #5. Take “after” photos of the installed permeable surface that show that it meets all the criteria in our permeable surfaces guide . Hold onto these to include with your project completion form (see step #5). Complete a project completion form with information about the final design and cost of the installation. Submit your project completion form, all paid invoices, and after photos to Carly Starobin at cstarobin@allianceforthebay.org . Within 1-3 weeks, the Alliance will email or call you to schedule a time to inspect the permeable surface. Within 2-6 weeks after the Alliance has inspected and approved your project, they will mail you a check for your rebate at the address in your application. You maintain and care for the permeable surface, including watering plants, weeding, and sweeping, following our maintenance guide . If you need more advice, you can email Carly Starobin at cstarobin@allianceforthebay.org . DC Government or the Alliance may randomly choose your home for an inspection to check that everything is maintained properly. We will email or call you to schedule the inspection if your project is selected. If your application doesn’t meet our requirements, we’ll let you know what changes you can make for your application to be approved. You may need to send in a revised design sketch, itemized invoice, perc test worksheet, and/or before photos for us to reevaluate your application. Are there any additional requirements I should know about? Your project must be at least 200 square feet if you’re using vegetation, or 100 square feet if you’re using permeable pavers. You may need permits for your project. Visit the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs’ Homeowner’s Center for information about permit requirements and how to apply for a permit. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to Carly Starobin at Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay at (202) 903-6533 . Or, you can email Carly at cstarobin@allianceforthebay.org with the subject line “Permeable Surface Rebate Question”. If you would like to talk to someone in DC Government about the program, please reach out to our RiverSmart Homes team at (202) 535-2252 , Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Or, you can email us at riversmarthomes@dc.gov using the subject line “Permeable Surface Rebate Question.” I still need help making my home more environmentally friendly. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that help make your home more environmentally friendly . Frequently Asked Questions How is my rebate calculated? The rebate is calculated based on the size of the treatment area. You’ll receive $5 per square foot of the surface that you're replacing with vegetation and $10 per square foot replaced with permeable pavers. You can receive up to $4,000 or the cost of your project. For example, if you replace a 200 square foot brick patio with permeable pavers, you can get a $2,000 rebate. If you replace it with vegetation, like native plants or grass, you can get a $1,000 rebate. I’d like to get a rebate for other green projects, like a shade tree or rain garden. What should I do? When you install qualifying green projects on your own or with an installer you choose, you can receive a rebate from us—DC Government. The eligibility criteria, application process, and amount of rebate vary depending on the type of project. You may need to apply before installation. You can learn more about the projects we offer rebates for: Green roofs to support the growth of plants that retain rainwater Rain gardens to help clean and retain polluted rainwater runoff Rain barrels to catch and store rain to use later to water your garden or wash your car Shade trees to help retain rainwater in the soil Can I get any other financial assistance for installing permeable surfaces? Yes! When you apply for this program, we’ll help you apply for a discount on your DC Water bill, called RiverSmart Rewards . This discount is for property owners who prevent runoff on their property with qualifying green projects, like permeable pavers. How do these green projects help the city of DC? Green projects, like rain barrels, rain gardens, and shade trees, help reduce the amount of polluted rainwater running off your property and into your rivers. This helps us protect the Anacostia River, Potomac River, and Rock Creek from harmful pollution. Can I try to reapply for the program if I am not approved? Yes. You can reapply for a rebate if you believe changes to your situation might make you eligible. Do all eligible applicants receive the rebate? Yes. If your project meets all of the requirements listed in our permeable surfaces guide , you’ll get a rebate. If you make changes to the design of your project after you apply, you should contact Carly Starobin ( cstarobin@allianceforthebay.org ) to see if you’ll still be able to get the rebate. This resource is provided by: Keywords: landscaping, homeowners, business owners, community-based organizations, religious institutions, reimbursement, replacing concrete, replacing asphalt, replacing brick, permeable pavers, vegetation, reduce pollution, polluted water, sustainability, refund, discount, green home ​ This page was last updated May 2021. ​

get a rebate for a rain garden to reduce polluted water in our rivers? DO YOU WANT TO ​ 1. Learn about this resource. Residents can receive a rebate when they help reduce polluted water from getting into our rivers by installing rain gardens at their home in DC. Rain gardens collect rainwater and filter out pollution. We—DC Government—offer a one-time rebate of $3 per square foot of treatment area up to $2,200 and not more than the cost of your rain garden. This program is called RiverSmart Rebates and is offered by the Department of Energy & Environment, in partnership with Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay (or the Alliance for short), a local nonprofit. ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if you own or rent a residential or commercial building in DC. You don’t need to live in DC to apply, as long as the property you’re applying for is in DC and you appoint someone to take care of the garden. What happens after I apply? Within 2-3 weeks, Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay (or the Alliance for short) will review your application and email or call you if your application is approved. In some cases, the Alliance will schedule a time to inspect the location where you plan to install the rain garden. If you already had an inspection through the RiverSmart Homes program, you don’t need another inspection. After your application is approved by the Alliance, install the rain garden yourself or with your landscaper. It’s optional, but if you can, take photos of the installation process to include with your project completion form (see step #5). Take photos of the installed rain garden that show that the garden meets all the criteria in our rain garden guide . Hold onto these to include with your project completion form (see step #5). Complete a project completion form with information about the final design and cost of the rain garden installation. Submit your project completion form and your after photos to Jordan Gochenaur at jgochenaur@allianceforthebay.org . Within 2-3 weeks after you submit your project completion form, the Alliance will email or call you to schedule a time to inspect the location where you installed the rain garden. Within six weeks after the Alliance has inspected and approved your rain garden, they will mail you a check for your rebate at the address in your application. You maintain and care for the rain garden, including watering plants, weeding, and keeping the downspout outlet clear, following our maintenance guide . Your garden needs regular attention to make sure it’s working correctly. If you need advice on how to maintain your rain garden, you can submit a question to the Alliance. DC Government or the Alliance may randomly choose your home for an inspection to check that everything is maintained properly. We will email or call you to schedule the inspection if your garden is selected to be inspected. If you are not approved, we will email or call you within two weeks of your application to let you know. We’ll let you know what changes you can make to the location or design of your rain garden for your application to be approved. Then, you may need to send in a revised design sketch, itemized invoice, perc test worksheet, and/or before photos for us to reevaluate your application. Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You may need permits for your project. Visit the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs’ Homeowner’s Center for information about permit requirements and how to apply for a permit. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to Jordan Gochenaur at the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay at (202) 553-6483 . Or you can email Jordan at jgochenaur@allianceforthebay.org with the subject line “Rain Garden Rebate Question”. Include before photos if you can. If you would like to talk to someone in DC Government about the program, please reach out to our RiverSmart Homes team at (202) 535-2252 , Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Or, you can email us at riversmarthomes@dc.gov using the subject line “Rain Garden Rebate Question.” I still need help making my home more environmentally friendly. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that help make your home more environmentally friendly . Frequently Asked Questions How is my rebate calculated? The rebate calculated based on the size of the treatment area, which includes the rain garden itself and areas (rooftops, concrete patios, asphalt driveways) draining into the rain garden. The treatment area must be at least 400 square feet. For example, if you install a 50 square foot rain garden and design it so that water from your 450 square foot roof drains into the rain garden, you could get a $1,500 rebate ($3 x 500 square feet). Can I get help installing my rain garden or other qualifying green projects, like a shade tree or rain barrel? Maybe! Our RiverSmart Homes program offers reduced prices and installation assistance for rain barrels, trees, rain gardens, and BayScaping. You may be eligible if you own a single-family home (or a building with four or fewer units). You pay $100 per 50 square feet of rain garden (up to two on each property), and we cover the rest, including installation. If you are approved for a rain garden larger than 75 square feet through RiverSmart Homes , you can also apply for a rebate to cover the remaining cost. RiverSmart Rebates might be a better fit for you than RiverSmart Homes if you prefer to: design a rain garden yourself, as long as it meets the requirements in our rain garden guide avoid long wait times to be assigned to a landscaper select your own landscaper or do the installation yourself I’d like to get a rebate for other green projects, like a shade tree or rain barrel. What should I do? When you install qualifying green projects on your own or with an installer you choose, you can receive a rebate from us—DC Government. The eligibility criteria, application process, and amount of rebate vary depending on the type of project, and you may need to apply before installation. You can learn more about the projects we offer rebates for: Green roofs to support the growth of plants that retain rainwater Permeable surfaces to capture and temporarily store rainwater instead of a regular asphalt or concrete surface Rain barrels to catch and store rain to use later to water your garden or wash your car Shade trees to help retain rainwater in the soil Can I get any other financial assistance for installing a rain garden? Yes! When you apply for this program, we’ll help you apply for a discount on your DC Water bill, called RiverSmart Rewards . This discount is for property owners who prevent runoff on their property with qualifying green projects, like rain gardens. How do these green projects help the city of DC? Green projects, like rain barrels, rain gardens, and shade trees, help reduce the amount of polluted rainwater running off your property and into your rivers. This helps us protect the Anacostia River, Potomac River, and Rock Creek from harmful pollution. Can I try to reapply for the program if I am not approved? Yes. You can reapply for a rebate if you believe changes to your situation might make you eligible. Do all eligible applicants receive the rebate? Yes. As long as your rain garden meets all of the requirements listed in our rain garden guide , you’ll get a rebate. 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? Within 2-3 weeks, Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay (or the Alliance for short) will review your application and email or call you if your application is approved. In some cases, the Alliance will schedule a time to inspect the location where you plan to install the rain garden. If you already had an inspection through the RiverSmart Homes program, you don’t need another inspection. After your application is approved by the Alliance, install the rain garden yourself or with your landscaper. It’s optional, but if you can, take photos of the installation process to include with your project completion form (see step #5). Take photos of the installed rain garden that show that the garden meets all the criteria in our rain garden guide . Hold onto these to include with your project completion form (see step #5). Complete a project completion form with information about the final design and cost of the rain garden installation. Submit your project completion form and your after photos to Jordan Gochenaur at jgochenaur@allianceforthebay.org . Within 2-3 weeks after you submit your project completion form, the Alliance will email or call you to schedule a time to inspect the location where you installed the rain garden. Within six weeks after the Alliance has inspected and approved your rain garden, they will mail you a check for your rebate at the address in your application. You maintain and care for the rain garden, including watering plants, weeding, and keeping the downspout outlet clear, following our maintenance guide . Your garden needs regular attention to make sure it’s working correctly. If you need advice on how to maintain your rain garden, you can submit a question to the Alliance. DC Government or the Alliance may randomly choose your home for an inspection to check that everything is maintained properly. We will email or call you to schedule the inspection if your garden is selected to be inspected. If you are not approved, we will email or call you within two weeks of your application to let you know. We’ll let you know what changes you can make to the location or design of your rain garden for your application to be approved. Then, you may need to send in a revised design sketch, itemized invoice, perc test worksheet, and/or before photos for us to reevaluate your application. Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You may need permits for your project. Visit the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs’ Homeowner’s Center for information about permit requirements and how to apply for a permit. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to Jordan Gochenaur at the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay at (202) 553-6483 . Or you can email Jordan at jgochenaur@allianceforthebay.org with the subject line “Rain Garden Rebate Question”. Include before photos if you can. If you would like to talk to someone in DC Government about the program, please reach out to our RiverSmart Homes team at (202) 535-2252 , Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm Or, you can email us at riversmarthomes@dc.gov using the subject line “Rain Garden Rebate Question.” I still need help making my home more environmentally friendly. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that help make your home more environmentally friendly . Frequently Asked Questions How is my rebate calculated? The rebate calculated based on the size of the treatment area, which includes the rain garden itself and areas (rooftops, concrete patios, asphalt driveways) draining into the rain garden. The treatment area must be at least 400 square feet. For example, if you install a 50 square foot rain garden and design it so that water from your 450 square foot roof drains into the rain garden, you could get a $1,500 rebate ($3 x 500 square feet). Can I get help installing my rain garden or other qualifying green projects, like a shade tree or rain barrel? Maybe! Our RiverSmart Homes program offers reduced prices and installation assistance for rain barrels, trees, rain gardens, and BayScaping. You may be eligible if you own a single-family home (or a building with four or fewer units). You pay $100 per 50 square feet of rain garden (up to two on each property), and we cover the rest, including installation. If you are approved for a rain garden larger than 75 square feet through RiverSmart Homes , you can also apply for a rebate to cover the remaining cost. RiverSmart Rebates might be a better fit for you than RiverSmart Homes if you prefer to: design a rain garden yourself, as long as it meets the requirements in our rain garden guide avoid long wait times to be assigned to a landscaper select your own landscaper or do the installation yourself I’d like to get a rebate for other green projects, like a shade tree or rain barrel. What should I do? When you install qualifying green projects on your own or with an installer you choose, you can receive a rebate from us—DC Government. The eligibility criteria, application process, and amount of rebate vary depending on the type of project, and you may need to apply before installation. You can learn more about the projects we offer rebates for: Green roofs to support the growth of plants that retain rainwater Permeable surfaces to capture and temporarily store rainwater instead of a regular asphalt or concrete surface Rain barrels to catch and store rain to use later to water your garden or wash your car Shade trees to help retain rainwater in the soil Can I get any other financial assistance for installing a rain garden? Yes! When you apply for this program, we’ll help you apply for a discount on your DC Water bill, called RiverSmart Rewards . This discount is for property owners who prevent runoff on their property with qualifying green projects, like rain gardens. How do these green projects help the city of DC? Green projects, like rain barrels, rain gardens, and shade trees, help reduce the amount of polluted rainwater running off your property and into your rivers. This helps us protect the Anacostia River, Potomac River, and Rock Creek from harmful pollution. Can I try to reapply for the program if I am not approved? Yes. You can reapply for a rebate if you believe changes to your situation might make you eligible. Do all eligible applicants receive the rebate? Yes. As long as your rain garden meets all of the requirements listed in our rain garden guide , you’ll get a rebate. This resource is provided by: Keywords: landscaping, homeowners, renters, business owners, nonprofits, community-based organizations, churches, temples, mosques, apartment buildings, reimbursement, reduce pollution, polluted water, sustainability, refund, discount, green home ​ This page was last updated May 2021. ​

​ 1. Learn about this resource. Homebuyers who work for District Government can receive assistance when buying a home in the District. We—DC Government—offer lower interest rates on your mortgage and an optional loan of up to 3% of your home’s price to help with your down payment. This program is called DC4ME and is offered by the DC Housing Finance Agency. ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if all of these statements are true: You are currently a full-time employee of the District, a DC independent agency, or a DC public school. Check the list of eligible employers . You have a minimum credit score of 640. Your yearly gross income—your income before paying taxes—is at or below $151,200. This includes money from working, government assistance, child support, and any other sources for everyone in your household. Your debt-to-income ratio is less than 50%. This means that your monthly debt payments (such as car payments, minimum due on credit card balances, and student loan payments) are less than half of your monthly income. You’re buying a single-family home, condominium, or other property with up to one unit. The home you’re buying has been appraised and is in normal condition. You haven’t owned a home anywhere in the world in the last 3 years. You do not need to be a current DC resident to apply. get a lower interest rate and help making a down payment as a DC Government employee? DO YOU WANT TO 3. Apply. Contact an approved lender that partners with DC4ME, or find out if your current lender will sign-up to participate. Your lender will verify that you qualify for the program. You may need to provide proof that you meet the eligibility requirements listed above. In most instances, you’ll find a lender before you start house hunting, and they could qualify you for the program then. A lender that partners with the program must verify your eligibility and apply on your behalf at least five days before you close on a home . 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? You make an offer on a property, and it’s accepted. That means you’re under contract on a home! Your lender gives you loan disclosures to sign. The lender reserves your interest rate in the program portal. If you’re also applying for assistance with your down payment, the lender submits your application for that, at least five days before closing. We review your loan application. This usually takes 2-3 days, but if you’re also applying for down payment assistance, it may take up to five days. The lender receives documents for you to sign. If you applied for down payment assistance, we will send our portion of your down payment to the title company. Two to three days before closing, you send any part of the down payment or closing costs not covered by the program to the title company. You go to the settlement and sign the deed to close on the home. You own your home! If your application is denied, we will notify your lender. We will also let them know why your application was denied. If your circumstances change and you think you may be eligible in the future, you may reapply. Are there any additional requirements I should know about? If you just applied for a reduced mortgage rate, you’ll make mortgage payments like a typical mortgage. If you received a loan to help with your down payment, you don’t make monthly payments on that loan. You’ll need to repay it after 30 years, or if you move, rent or sell the home, or refinance—whichever happens first. When the time comes to repay your loan, you can request a payoff statement . If you’re selling or refinancing, you’ll repay us back at settlement, but if you’re renting out your home, or if 30 years have passed, you will send us a check. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to our DC4ME team at (202) 777-1600 , Monday-Friday from 9am to 5pm. Or, you can email the team at singlefamilyprograms@dchfa.org using the subject line “DC4ME Question.” I still need help preparing to buy a home. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that might help on our homebuying resources page . Do all eligible applicants receive assistance? Yes, all eligible applicants can receive assistance. Frequently Asked Questions What costs of buying a home aren’t covered by the program? You may need to pay part of the down payment to the title company when your offer is accepted to show you’re serious. The amount of this payment, called an earnest money deposit, varies. Your real estate agent can advise on what to put in your offer. Within a few weeks of your offer being accepted, you’ll have the option to pay for a home inspection to make sure the property is safe and functional. When you close on your home , you may also have to pay closing costs, including taxes, insurance, and other fees, that aren’t covered by the program. Can I use other assistance programs with DC4ME? Yes. You can use other programs to help with a home purchase at the same time as DC4ME. You can find information about other resources that might help on our homebuying resources page . This resource is provided by: Keywords: DC Government employee, homebuying assistance, homebuyer, lower interest rates, mortgage, down payment assistance, DC independent agency employee, DC public school employee, District employee, DC employee benefits ​ This page was last updated May 2021. ​

​ 1. Learn about this resource. Residents, age 62 years of age or older or who have a disability, have the opportunity to buy their home (if they lived there prior to April 15, 2018), before any other potential buyers, once their landlord provides a formal notice that they intend to sell the home. This does not guarantee a sale. The landlord must offer the property at between 10% more or less than the same price they’d sell it to another buyer. The resident and the landlord will need to negotiate the terms of the sale. This legal protection is called the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act and is administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development. ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if all of these statements are true: You live in a DC single-family home—a building with one unit—that you rent. You have received notice from your landlord that they intend to sell the home. You signed a lease for your home on or before March 31, 2018. You have lived in your home since April 15, 2018. You are 62 years of age or older or have a disability. buy your single-family home from your landlord? DO YOU WANT TO 3. If you decide to move forward. After receiving the Notice of Intent to Sell (also known as Form 1) from your landlord, you have 20 calendar days to formally express your interest in buying the property. You must tell both your landlord and the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) using a form provided by your landlord with the Notice of Intent to Sell. You must also provide proof of age or disability status. You can contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate for assistance. During this period you are welcome to request additional information from your landlord about the building such as the floor plan, utility consumption rates, a list of previous tenants, and a list of past capital expenditures—large repairs like replacing the roof— for the two previous years. Within 60 calendar days , your landlord must reply with an offer that includes the sale price. 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? Within 20 calendar days from the offer of sale, you must accept, deny, or begin negotiation with your landlord. If you and your landlord reach an agreement, then you must go to settlement within 45 calendar days - although extensions can be granted up to 75 days. Going to settlement means finalizing the sale of the home. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the Department of Housing and Community Development at (202) 442-7200 , Monday to Friday, 8:15 am - 4:45 pm. Or, you can email the department at dhcd@dc.gov using the subject line, “TOPA.” I still need help preparing to buy a home. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that might help on our prepare to buy a home resources page . Frequently Asked Questions Does the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act apply to rentals in multi-unit buildings? Yes; however the process and timeline for navigating a purchase are different than a single-family home. The Office of the Tenant Advocate can provide guidance. I want more details about the property before I decide how to move forward. How do I get these? You may request additional information for the previous two years from your landlord once you receive the Notice of Intent to Sell. To ensure that your application form deadlines are met, your landlord must provide you with the requested information within seven days of your request. What if I don’t want to buy the home I rent? If you receive a notice that your landlord intends to sell, you can of course waive your rights to buy the home if you are not interested or unable to buy. You simply need to indicate on the form provided by your landlord that you are not interested in buying. What do I do if my landlord did not provide me with a Notice of Intent to Sell? You should contact the Department of Housing and Community Development at (202) 442-7200 , Monday to Friday, 8:15 am - 4:45 pm. Or, you can email the department at dhcd.casd@dc.gov using the subject line, “TOPA.” Do all eligible applicants get to purchase their home from their landlord? No. The purchase of the home depends on the tenant and landlord negotiations. This resource is provided by: Keywords: tenants, renters, rent, renting, homebuying, single-family home, landlord is selling my home, buy property, purchase property This page was last updated April 2021. ​

​ 1. Learn about this resource. DC Government employees in Collective Bargaining Units 1 and 2 can receive down payment and closing cost assistance to buy a single family home, condominium, or cooperative unit in the District. You would receive assistance as a grant—funds you don’t have to pay back. The amount depends on how long you’ve been in your collective bargaining unit and range from $3,000 to $20,000. This program is called the Negotiated Employee Assistance Home Purchase (NEAHP) program and is offered by the Department of Housing and Community Development and the Office of Labor Relations and Collective Bargaining. At this time, the program is not funded through September 2021. ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if all of these statements are true: You are currently a full-time DC Government employee in one of the following bargaining units: District of Columbia Compensation Units 1 & 2 at various agencies The Department of Behavioral Health and the employees represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Local 2095 and the American Federation of Government Employees Local 383 The Department of Behavioral Health and the Service Employees International Union 1199 The Department of Behavioral Health and the District of Columbia Nurses Association The Department of General Services and Teamsters 639/730 The Office of the State Superintendent for Education and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, Local 1959 DC Public Schools and Teamsters 639/730 You have been a DC Government employee for at least one year. You are in good standing with your employer. This means there were no disciplinary actions filed against you in the past three years. You have not owned a home in DC in the past three years. You do not need to be a current DC resident to apply for the program. get help buying a home as a DC unionized employee? DO YOU WANT TO 3. Apply. Schedule a virtual orientation session with a housing counselor by calling one of our partner organizations . After orientation, contact a housing counselor for application and eligibility. Submit the necessary documents listed in your application package to the counselor. The housing counselor will finalize and send your application to the program administrator - Greater Washington Urban League for underwriting. You can apply at any time. 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? The program administrator will review your application and determines your eligibility. The current program administrators is the Greater Washington Urban League. You will receive a Notice of Eligibility (NOE) by mail. The notice includes the maximum amount of assistance available to you and the next steps to take. Within 1 year from the date of the NOE, you will need to complete the homebuying process along with the help of one of our organization partners: Complete an eight hour homebuying training with one of our partner organizations. Find a first trust lender and a home you’d like to buy. We recommend finding a realtor to support you through the process. Once your offer is accepted, have the home inspected. The program administrator will review your first trust loan and home inspection report. If everything is approved, they will wire payment assistance to your title company for the purchase. The grant will be applied during your home sale closing. You’re in your home! If your application is not approved, you can reapply, but you must meet eligibility criteria when you reapply. Are there any additional requirements I should know about? The home that you buy must be your main place of residence, so you can’t rent it out to others. You cannot own other property in DC, but you are still allowed to own property outside of DC. You cannot waive the home inspection contingency in your offer. The maximum grant you receive varies by how long you’ve been a DC Government employee and whether you and your spouse (if applicable) are eligible. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the Negotiated Employee Assistance Home Purchase Program team at (202) 442-7200 , Monday to Friday, 8:15 am to 4:45 pm. Or, you can email the team at dhcd@dc.gov using the subject line "NEAHP.” I still need help preparing to buy a home. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that might help on our prepare to buy a home resources page . Frequently Asked Questions How much can DC employees receive? Grants range from $3,000 to $20,000 for an eligible DC employee and $5,500 to $26,500 for two eligible DC employees who are married. What is a First Trust lender? This is the entity that provides you with a mortgage to buy your home. If you do not pay your mortgage, the First Trust lender has the right, before any other lenders, to foreclose on your home. They are first. Can I use this financial assistance combined with other assistance the District offers? Yes. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can also receive assistance from the Home Purchase Assistance Program and the Employee Assisted Housing Program . Can I receive a grant if I have received one from this program before? You can receive NEAHP assistance as long as you are a first time homebuyer. This means you cannot have owned residential real estate for the previous 3 years. Do all eligible applicants receive a grant? No, funding for the program is limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis. At this time, the program is not funded through September 2021. This resource is provided by: Keywords: DC Government employees, grant funds, down payment, closing costs, homebuying assistance, homebuyer, union, union worker, homebuying, District employee, DC employee, DC employee benefits, government employee This page was last updated February 2021. ​

​ 1. Learn about this resource. Residents can get help paying for their electricity, gas, oil, and/or water bills. We—DC Government—will pay between $250 and $1,800 per year toward your utility bills from either PEPCO, Washington Gas, or DC Oil. The amount you receive depends on your household size, what type of home you live in, and your typical bill amount. This assistance is part of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). In addition, we will also help you lower your electricity, gas, and/or water bills by providing: 30% off on your PEPCO electricity bill (up to $475 per year); 25% off on your Washington Gas bill during the winter season (up to $276 per season); and About $65 off on your DC Water bill each month ($780 per year). ​ This assistance is provided by the Utility Discount Program (UDP). You need to reapply in September of each year to continue receiving LIHEAP and UDP assistance. Both LIHEAP and UDP are offered by the Department of Energy and Environment. The eligibility requirements and application process are the same for both programs. ​ 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if all of these statements are true: Your home is in DC. Your name or the name of someone in your household is listed on your utility bills. If not, you must be able to show that someone in your household owns your home or is responsible for paying your utility bill. ​ And if one of these statements is true: Your household receives support from at least one of the following programs: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or​ Your household’s annual gross income—your income before paying taxes—is at or below the limits based on your household size. You can check by answering the two questions below. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ get help paying for your utilities? DO YOU WANT TO What happens after I apply? We—DC Government—will tell you if you have been approved by phone or email within two business days of applying. You can also call 311 to get an update on your application. You’ll start seeing the credits and/or discounts on your bills within two billing cycles of when you applied (about two months after). They’ll cover charges starting the day you applied. If you are not approved, we will let you know by phone or by email within two days of when you applied. You can also call 311 to get an update on your application. You can appeal our decision within 90 days of hearing that your application is not approved. We just need your name, address, and the best way to contact you (phone or email). You can appeal online or by calling 311, or by writing to us at: The Office of Administrative Hearings 441 4th Street, N.W., Suite 450 North Washington, D.C. 20001 Are there any additional requirements I should know about? If you would like to continue to receive utility assistance, you must reapply for the program by October of each year. If you don’t reapply by October, your assistance will stop until you reapply. We—DC Government—will send you an application in the mail to reapply in September of each year. You can reapply in person or online following the instructions above or by returning the paper application to us by mail at: Department of Energy & Environment 1200 First Street NE, 5th Floor Washington, DC 20002 When you reapply, include copies of your household’s photo IDs (like a driver’s license), social security cards or alien registration numbers, and most recent utility bill(s) for the utility or utilities that are turned off. You’ll also need proof of income, which could include your most recent pay stubs, social security statements, pension statements, unemployment benefits statements, child support statements, and/or tax return. At least one of your documents needs to list your full name and DC address to show that you live in DC. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to our Affordability and Efficiency team at (202) 535-2600 , Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm. Or, you can email us at doee@dc.gov with the subject line, “LIHEAP/UDP Question.” I still need help with my utilities. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that might help on our utilities resources page . Frequently Asked Questions My utility has been turned off or will be soon. Can you help me? If your electricity or gas has been turned off or if your oil tank is almost empty, you can get emergency assistance to turn it back on. You can also get emergency assistance if you are at least 55 years old and received a notice that your utility could be turned off. Can I combine utility assistance with other energy and efficiency programs? Yes. When you apply, you can say that you’re interested in getting help to reduce your home’s heat and electricity use and/or to replace a broken heating or cooling appliance . If you’re approved for utility assistance, we will email you within two business days explaining how to apply for these programs. Can I receive assistance for more than one utility? Yes. Under the UDP, if your name or the name of someone in your household is listed on your electricity, gas, and/or water bills, you may be eligible to receive a discount on each. However, under LIHEAP, you can only receive a $250-$1,800 credit toward your electricity, gas, or oil bill each year. My utility bill is not in the name of anyone that lives in my home. Can I still apply? Yes, you can still apply. If your PEPCO, Washington Gas, DC Oil, or DC Water bill does not list a household member’s name, you must include proof that someone in your household owns your home or a copy of the lease agreement that states that someone in your household is responsible for paying your home’s PEPCO, Washington Gas, DC Oil, or DC Water bill. My household doesn’t have any income. How can I prove that? If your household doesn’t have any income, you can submit one of these documents with your application: An notarized income statement , A screenshot of your "Claimant Profile" page on the Department of Employment Services (DOES) website showing that your "Balance" is zero ( see example ), A recent letter from your former employer stating that you no longer work there (if you've lost your job but are not yet receiving unemployment benefits from DOES), OR A recent letter from the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) stating that your household doesn't have any income Do all eligible applicants get utility assistance? Yes. 4. Gather more information. What happens after I apply? We—DC Government—will tell you if you have been approved by phone or email within two business days of applying. You can also call 311 to get an update on your application. You’ll start seeing the credits and/or discounts on your bills within two billing cycles of when you applied (about two months after). They’ll cover charges starting the day you applied. If you are not approved, we will let you know by phone or by email within two days of when you applied. You can also call 311 to get an update on your application. You can appeal our decision within 90 days of hearing that your application is not approved. We just need your name, address, and the best way to contact you (phone or email). You can appeal online or by calling 311, or by writing to us at: The Office of Administrative Hearings 441 4th Street, N.W., Suite 450 North Washington, D.C. 20001 Are there any additional requirements I should know about? If you would like to continue to receive utility assistance, you must reapply for the program by October of each year. If you don’t reapply by October, your assistance will stop until you reapply. We—DC Government—will send you an application in the mail to reapply in September of each year. You can reapply in person or online following the instructions above or by returning the paper application to us by mail at: Department of Energy & Environment 1200 First Street NE, 5th Floor Washington, DC 20002 When you reapply, include copies of your household’s photo IDs (like a driver’s license), social security cards or alien registration numbers, and most recent utility bill(s) for the utility or utilities that are turned off. You’ll also need proof of income, which could include your most recent pay stubs, social security statements, pension statements, unemployment benefits statements, child support statements, and/or tax return. At least one of your documents needs to list your full name and DC address to show that you live in DC. Who should I contact if I have questions? First, take a look at the frequently asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, please reach out to our Affordability and Efficiency team at (202) 535-2600 , Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm. Or, you can email us at doee@dc.gov with the subject line, “LIHEAP/UDP Question.” I still need help with my utilities. What should I do? You can find information about other resources that might help on our utilities resources page . Frequently Asked Questions My utility has been turned off or will be soon. Can you help me? If your electricity or gas has been turned off or if your oil tank is almost empty, you can get emergency assistance to turn it back on. You can also get emergency assistance if you are at least 55 years old and received a notice that your utility could be turned off. Can I combine utility assistance with other energy and efficiency programs? Yes. When you apply, you can say that you’re interested in getting help to reduce your home’s heat and electricity use and/or to replace a broken heating or cooling appliance . If you’re approved for utility assistance, we will email you within two business days explaining how to apply for these programs. Can I receive assistance for more than one utility? Yes. Under the UDP, if your name or the name of someone in your household is listed on your electricity, gas, and/or water bills, you may be eligible to receive a discount on each. However, under LIHEAP, you can only receive a $250-$1,800 credit toward your electricity, gas, or oil bill each year. My utility bill is not in the name of anyone that lives in my home. Can I still apply? Yes, you can still apply. If your PEPCO, Washington Gas, DC Oil, or DC Water bill does not list a household member’s name, you must include proof that someone in your household owns your home or a copy of the lease agreement that states that someone in your household is responsible for paying your home’s PEPCO, Washington Gas, DC Oil, or DC Water bill. My household doesn’t have any income. How can I prove that? If your household doesn’t have any income, you can submit one of these documents with your application: An notarized income statement , A screenshot of your "Claimant Profile" page on the Department of Employment Services (DOES) website showing that your "Balance" is zero ( see example ), A recent letter from your former employer stating that you no longer work there (if you've lost your job but are not yet receiving unemployment benefits from DOES), OR A recent letter from the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) stating that your household doesn't have any income Do all eligible applicants get utility assistance? Yes. This resource is provided by: Keywords: District residents, electricity bill, gas bill, oil bill, water bill, income limits, how to pay my utility bills, help paying bills, utility discounts, homeowners, renters This page was last updated May 2021. ​