In Chile, the increase in basic services prices has become a constant issue and directly affects family budgets. One of the most relevant is the consumption of waterwhose cost can represent a significant percentage of monthly income. To mitigate this situation, there is a state subsidy destined to cover part of the drinking water and sewerage ballot, allowing the most vulnerable homes to access significant discounts in their accounts.
Potable water subsidy in Chile
This subsidy can cover from 25% to 85% of the account of waterdepending on the socioeconomic level of the requesting household. In the case of families that are part of social programs such as Chile Solidario or Chile Segurities and Opportunities, the benefit is even greater: the entire percentage awarded is financed, although with a monthly consumption limit. The contribution covers a maximum of fifteen cubic meters of water, which is equivalent to 15,000 liters, and in the case of beneficiaries of social programs, the limit is thirteen cubic meters or 13,000 liters.
To access this benefit, the home must meet specific conditions related to its consumption and economic situation. Among them, more than 5% of the monthly income is required to pay the account of the account of water. It is also required to be up to date with the health company or the rural drinking water service. If there are debts, the family must replace them before applying. In addition, the applicant must be head of household, be registered in the Social Household Registry and live in a home with formal connection to the drinking water network.
The basic steps and requirements for postulating benefit are as follows:
- Be permanent resident in the corresponding commune.
- Be registered in the Social Household Registry.
- Show that water exceeds 5% of monthly income.
- Submit the last paid water ticket or an agreement in case of debt.
- Postulate in the municipality in person, since it is not available online.
- Be chief or head of household or have an authorized representative.
- Procedure to apply for drinking water subsidy.
The application is not made virtually, but requires going personally to the municipality. The procedure is carried out in the social department of the municipality, where the ballot of water canceled or proof of debt replacement. If the person is not up to date in payments or does not regularize their situation with the health company, he will not be able to continue with the process.
