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DC Government provides households the chance to rent specific units at a reduced rate. You may be eligible if your household meets income requirements. 1. Learn about this resource. Applicants can enter a lottery for reduced-price units based on their household’s income. DC Government requires that 8-10% of units in most new or renovated apartment buildings are rented at a reduced price. This program is called the Inclusionary Zoning Program (IZ) and is offered by the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). The program also offers affordable prices units for sale . 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if all of these statements are true: If you are a full-time college or university student, you must also be a dependent of someone whose household meets the household income requirements. Your household’s yearly gross income—your income before paying taxes—is between the minimum and maximum limits for your household size . However, there is no minimum income requirement if you receive rental assistance, such as a rent voucher or subsidy. Check below. rent an apartment at a reduced price? DO YOU WANT TO How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. This resource is provided by: Keywords: reduced rate, income limits, renting, rent, renters, lottery, apartments, subsidized housing, income-based, affordable unit This page was last updated July 2023. You do not need to be a DC resident or work in DC to apply. However, the program must prioritize households that live or work in DC due to regulations. አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt IZ Renter Translations

Take a short quiz to see what DC Government homeownership resources you may qualify for. Quiz Translations

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This page includes information on how residents can test for and protect themselves from lead in the home. resources to protect my household from lead I'm looking for What can I do if I’m concerned about lead in my water? Residents can test the lead levels in their water and, if needed, replace water pipes: DC Water offers a free water testing kit so that households can check the lead content of their water pipes. To receive a free kit, reach out to the Drinking Water Division at (202) 612-3440 or email leadtest@dcwater.com . We offer the Lead Pipe Replacement program , which provides financial assistance to eligible homeowners to replace lead pipes that connect their home to the city water supply. DC Water has several tips to reduce lead exposure . I need to talk to someone. Who can I call? If this is a life-threatening emergency, call 911 . To request city services and information about lead protection, call 311 . If you are a renter concerned about lead exposure, contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate to discuss your rights at (202) 719-6560 . Or reach out to The Department of Energy and Environment at (202) 535-2600 , Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt What can I do if I’m concerned about lead-based paint in my home? Residents can test their home for lead-based paint and check their family for lead exposure: We offer the Lead Reduction Program to eligible households, which tests the lead levels in paint and, if needed, offers financial assistance for lead paint repairs. Ask your doctor to test your child for lead. A blood test is the only way to know if your child is being exposed to lead. By law, all children who live in the District of Columbia must be tested for lead at ages 6–14 months and 22–26 months. An easy way to remember: Test every child, twice by two . Trying to fix or do work on a surface painted with lead-based paint without training on how to do so safely can create additional hazards. You also must follow lead-safe practices anytime you’re renovating, removing mold, or making other changes to a surface painted with lead-based paint in a property built before 1978. To have your home tested for lead-based paint and to make sure lead-based paint is remedied safely, work with a DC-certified paint professional and get permits for your project . I have a question that’s not covered here. Who can I contact? You can reach out to The Department of Energy and Environment at (202) 535-2600 , Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Or, you can email the team at doee@dc.gov with the subject line “Lead Protection Question.” This page only covers resources available through us—DC Government—and our contractors. It was last updated in March 2021. Keywords: test for lead, protect my home from lead, contamination, clean water, test my water, homeowners, renters, lead testing, replace lead paint, child, pregnant person, kid, babysitting, expecting, homeowners, replace lead pipes, city water supply, safe drinking water, healthy living, water safety, drinkable water, safe water Lead Protection Translations

Find resources to help DC Government employees buy a home. RESOURCES TO get help buying a home as a DC Government employee አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt Get up to $25,000 to buy a home Both homeowners and renters can apply. Applicants must work for DC Government. Get a lower interest rate and help making a down payment Both homeowners and renters can apply. Applicants must work for DC Government. Get help buying a home as a unionized employee Both homeowners and renters can apply. Applicants must work for DC Government. Homebuying Translations

The District provides residents with assistance paying their electricity, gas, oil, and/or water bills. Your household may be eligible if you live in DC and if your income is below the program limits. 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, C & M Oil, or Griffith 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: About 30% off on your PEPCO electricity bill (up to $475 per year); 46% off on your Washington Gas bill from November to April (up to $276 during the winter season); and About $77 off on your DC Water bill each month. 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 application process is 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 This resource is provided by: አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. 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 October 2022. LIHEAP and UDP Translations

DC Government offers its employees a deferred, interest-free loan and matching funds to help with the costs of buying a home. You may be eligible if you are a District Government employee. 1. Learn about this resource. DC Government employees can receive both down payment and closing cost assistance, up to a $20,000 loan, to purchase a single family home, condominium, or cooperative unit in the District. You can also receive a matching grant—funds you don’t have to pay back—of up to $5,000 . There are no income restrictions to participate. This program is called the Employer-Assisted Housing Program and is offered 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 are currently a full-time DC Government employee. You have been a DC Government employee for at least one year. If you’re a police officer, corrections officer, firefighter, emergency medical technician, paramedic, or a teacher in a public or public charter school the minimum one-year employment requirement is waived. 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 up to $25,000 to buy a home as a DC Government employee? DO YOU WANT TO How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. This resource is provided by: Keywords: DC Government, deferred loan, interest-free loan, matching funds, District Government employee, homebuying assistance, down payment, closing costs, title fees, homeowner's insurance, mortgage, buying a home, homebuyer, first-time homeowner, District employee, DC employee benefits This page was last updated January 2023. አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt EAHP Translations

Find DC Government resources to get financially ready to buy a home. RESOURCES TO get ready to buy a home አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt Learn about buying and owning a home Resources for renters and homeowners to understand the steps to buy and maintain a home. Save money toward a goal Both homeowners and renters can apply. Applicants must live in DC. Make financial goals, a budget, and a plan to pay off debt Both homeowners and renters can apply. Applicants must live in DC. Get help dealing with a problem with a financial institution Both homeowners and renters can apply. Homebuying Translations

The DC Government offers rebates for property owners who replace concrete, asphalt, and brick with permeable pavers or vegetation to reduce polluted water getting into our rivers. You may be eligible if you own a property in DC’s municipal storm sewer system. 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 $8 per square foot of the surface that you're replacing with vegetation and $15 per square foot replaced with permeable pavers. You can receive up to $6,000 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. Properties in the Historic Anacostia neighborhood are eligible, even though they are not blue on the map. 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. This resource is provided by: አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. 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 2024. Pavers Translations

DC Government provides financial assistance for homeowners to replace lead pipes that connect their home to the city water supply. You may be eligible if you are a DC resident. 1. Learn about this resource. Homeowners can use financial assistance from us—DC Government—to replace lead pipes on private property that connect the city water supply to their home. Regardless of your income, you can receive a 50% discount (up to $2,500) on your replacement. If your household income is at or below the program limits, you can receive the replacement for free. This program is called the Lead Pipe Replacement Assistance Program and is offered through a partnership between the Department of Energy and Environment and DC Water. 2. Check if you are eligible. You may be eligible if all of these statements are true: You own the home. Your home is in DC. The pipe connecting your home to the city water supply is partially lead, meaning that the part on public space isn’t lead, but the part on private property is. Look at the “Apply” section to find out if this is true for your home and to learn how to replace your pipes if they are fully lead. replace lead pipes connected to your home? DO YOU WANT TO This resource is provided by: Everyone that is approved for the program receives at least a 50% discount (up to $2,500). If your household’s annual gross income—your income before paying taxes—is at or below the program limits, you can receive the replacement for free. Y ou can check by answering the two questions below. አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. Keywords: test for lead, protect my home from lead, contamination, clean water, test my water, lead testing, homeowners, replace lead pipes, city water supply, DC resident, safe drinking water, healthy living, water safety, drinkable water, safe water This page was last updated March 2022. Lead Pipe Translations

The District provides residents with a discount on their water bill. Your household may be eligible if you live in DC and if your income is below the program limits. 1. Learn about this resource. Residents can get a $16-$134 discount on their monthly water bill. We—the DC Government—offer this discount to residents by reducing fees and rates for the water you use. Y our discount is calculated based on your household’s income. You need to reapply starting October 1st of each year to continue receiving assistance. This program is called the Clean Rivers Impervious Area Charge (CRIAC) Residential Relief Program and is offered by the Department of Energy and Environment. 2. Check if you are eligible. You are eligible if both of these statements are true: You live in DC. Your name or the name of someone in your household is listed on your DC Water bill. If not, you must be able to show that someone in your household owns your home or is responsible for paying your home’s DC Water bill. And if at least 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. save money on your water bill? DO YOU WANT TO How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. This resource is provided by: አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. Keywords: water fees, reduce water bill, water assistance, discount, income limits This page was last updated November 2024. CRIAC Translations

DC Government offers residents a tax credit of up to $1,200 for being a DC homeowner or renter. You may be eligible if you have been a DC resident for all of the last calendar year and you meet the income requirements. 1. Learn about this resource. Residents can receive a tax credit of up to $1,200 when they file their annual DC income taxes. The credit amount depends on how much you pay in property tax or rent as well as your income. It is intended to help offset the real property tax you pay on your home either directly to the Office of Tax and Revenue or indirectly as part of the rent you pay to your landlord. This credit is called the Homeowner and Renter Property Tax Credit (or the Schedule H Tax Credit) and is administered by the Office of Tax and Revenue. 2. Check if you are eligible. You may be eligible if all of these statements are true: You were a DC resident for all of the previous year (January 1st through December 31st). Your federal adjusted gross income—reported on line 4 of your DC income tax return—is $55,700 or less. If you are 70 or older, your federal adjusted gross income is $75,900 or less. If you are 65 or younger, you are not claimed as a dependent on someone else’s tax filing. You own your home and paid DC property taxes in the previous year or you rent your home and paid rent in the previous year. Your home is not exempt from DC real property tax. reduce your income taxes? DO YOU WANT TO This resource is provided by: አማርኛ 中文 Français 한국어 Español Tiếng Việt Keywords: state income tax, file taxes, reduce my taxes, help paying taxes, how to lower taxes, tax credit, homeowners, renters, DC resident, income limits This page was last updated November 2021. Schedule H Translations How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time. How do I apply? Email Capital Area Asset Builders (or CAAB), a nonprofit organization that partners with DC Government to run this program, at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. If it’s easier, you can call CAAB at (202) 419-1440. CAAB will send you an application form. Send the form back to CAAB by email. You’ll also need to provide documentation, including your two most recent pay stubs and the most recent tax return for anyone in the household with income from working. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until the program has reached capacity. If there are no available slots, CAAB will put you on the waitlist. Applicants on the waitlist will be contacted when more funding becomes available. What happens after I apply? Within 5 business days, CAAB will notify you by email to let you know if your application is accepted or not. If you’re approved, CAAB will schedule a time for you to meet or talk on the phone with a financial counselor. The financial counselor will provide advice tailored to you and work with you to name a goal for your savings. You will also need to sign an agreement for your participation in the program and complete a survey about your financial situation. CAAB will create a savings account with Citibank, owned by both you and us—DC Government. You will contribute at least $25 a month to your new savings account for 6-18 months. You can contribute in person at the bank or by setting up an automatic deposit from your paycheck. When you’re ready to withdraw the funds, we will match your savings with $4 for every $1 you deposit. You can save up to $1,500 over 6-18 months to receive up to $6,000 in matched savings, for a total savings of up to $7,500. You will use your matched savings towards the goal that you chose earlier in the process! Are there any additional requirements I should know about? You must make a minimum deposit of $25 each month. You must contribute monthly to the savings account for at least six months within 18 months of opening it. You must receive financial coaching before withdrawing from your matched funds. You can take the money out of your account after you’ve reached your savings goal or if you are approved for an emergency withdrawal. Your savings must go toward: Purchasing a home in DC as your primary residence Launching a small business in DC for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Post-secondary educational costs, such as college, trade school, or other classes at an institution of higher education for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Job training costs with an accredited or licensed program for yourself or for your spouse, domestic partner, father, mother, child, or dependent Major repairs or improvements to the home you live in Costs associated with a medical emergency that aren’t covered by insurance Saving for retirement Paying for costs and expenses that come up during retirement 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 Capital Area Asset Builders by phone at (202) 419-1440 or via email at DCOpportunity@caab.org with the subject line “DC Opportunity Account”. I'm not eligible, but I need help with my finances. What should I do?" You can find information about other resources that might help on our [issue] resources page. Frequently Asked Questions Is this a program run by the DC government? Yes. We—DC Government—partner with Capital Area Asset Builders, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to create opportunities for individuals with low and moderate incomes in DC to build financial security. Can I make an emergency withdrawal from my account? Yes. You can make one emergency withdrawal while you’re saving in the account. If you need to pay for medical emergency costs not covered by insurance or for health insurance premiums in the event of a sudden, unexpected loss of income, you can make an emergency withdrawal that includes your own funds, as well as DC matching funds. These withdrawals do not need to be repaid, but you must resume regular deposits within 90 days. If you need to make an emergency withdrawal for another reason, including to prevent an eviction and to help with living expenses following loss of employment, you may withdraw your own funds only and must repay your account within 12 months. Is it possible to build credit using this account? No, unfortunately, because this is an account co-owned by you and us, depositing in this account won’t improve your credit score. I want to use my savings toward buying a home. Do I need to notify the program? Yes. You will need to live in the home, and it must be located in DC. Can I save more than $1,500 in the savings account? Yes. You can save more than $1,500, but the program will only provide a match of up to $6,000. Any funds that you contribute after the amount of $1,500 will not be matched. We still encourage you to save as much as you can! In addition to the match, will the money I put in the savings account earn interest? A typical savings account lets you store cash securely with a bank and earns interest on the money you save. This special savings account does not earn interest, but the match from us is much larger than the typical interest rate would offer. If I have participated in the program before and received a match, can I participate again? There is more interest in the program than spots available, so we are only able to accept applicants participating for the first time.