Federal funding for lead pipe replacement: where the grant money is and how to get it
Updated November 2, 2026
Can I apply for a federal grant to replace my lead pipe?
Not directly. Federal lead line money goes to states and then to water utilities. Homeowners benefit when their utility uses it to replace the private side for free or at a reduced cost.
The 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law set aside $15 billion specifically for replacing lead service lines. Homeowners often search for a grant application, but the money doesn't come to you directly. Here is how it actually reaches your house.
How the money flows
- Congress to EPA. The infrastructure law funded lead service line replacement through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund over five years, fiscal years 2022 through 2026.
- EPA to states. EPA allots the money to each state's revolving fund. Since 2023 the split has been based on each state's estimated number of lead lines.
- States to utilities. States lend the money to water systems. Under the law, 49% of each state's lead line money has to go out as grants or forgivable loans, aimed at disadvantaged communities.
- Utilities to homeowners. Utilities use the money to replace lines, often including the private side at no cost or a reduced cost to the owner.
Why you can't apply directly
The federal money is for water systems, not individuals. The "grant" a homeowner gets is the utility paying for the private side. So the question to ask is whether your utility has won state funding and whether it covers your side. Your city's page on this site shows what we have confirmed.
Other sources utilities use
- General revolving fund money beyond the dedicated lead line pot.
- WIIN Act grants for reducing lead in drinking water, run by EPA.
- American Rescue Plan funds that many cities put toward lead lines.
- Community Development Block Grants for low-income homeowners in some cities.
- State programs such as Michigan's and Illinois's lead line funds.
- Water rates, which ultimately pay back the loans.
How to get your share
- Find your utility's program on this site, or search your city name plus "lead service line replacement".
- Sign up or return the consent form as soon as it arrives. Funded programs work through lists, and some have ended when the money ran out.
- If you are low income, ask about extra help. Many cost-share programs pay more for qualifying households.
- If your utility has no program, ask your council member whether it has applied for state revolving fund money.
Is the money taxable?
No. The IRS has said that lead service line replacement paid for by a utility or government program is not taxable income to the homeowner. See is lead pipe replacement taxable.
Sources: EPA: Bipartisan Infrastructure Law SRF memorandum, EPA: lead service line replacement funding, IRS Announcement 2024-10
Common questions
Can I apply for a federal grant to replace my lead pipe?
Not directly. Federal lead line money goes to states and then to water utilities. Homeowners benefit when their utility uses it to replace the private side for free or at a reduced cost.
How much federal money is there for lead pipe replacement?
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law dedicated $15 billion to lead service line replacement through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, on top of other water infrastructure funding.
Does lead pipe replacement grant money count as income?
No. The IRS has said replacement paid for by a utility or government program is not taxable income to the homeowner.
Find your city's program
Chicago, ILCleveland, OHNew York City, NYDetroit, MIMilwaukee, WIIndianapolis, INMinneapolis, MNCincinnati, OHBuffalo, NYColumbus, OHFort Worth, TXSouth Bend, INProvidence, RINashville, TNHammond, INKansas City, MOElkhart, INGrand Rapids, MIPhiladelphia, PAPittsburgh, PASaint Paul, MNMemphis, TNSyracuse, NYWashington, DC, DC
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