City of Tucson
Environmental Services Low Income Assistance Program
Frequently Asked Questions  

This information sheet provides answers to some of the frequently asked questions regarding the Low Income Assistance Program for the City of Tucson’s Environmental Services (ES) residential fee. If you have any questions regarding this, or any other ES related issue, please contact ES Customer Service at (520) 791-3171 (M – F 7 am – 6 pm)

What is the Environmental Services Low Income Assistance Program?

The ES Low Income Assistance Program provides a $12 credit toward the ES monthly residential fee to City of Tucson residents who meet the eligibility requirements.

Who is Eligible for the program?

Customers wishing to participate in the ES Low Income Assistance Program must receive residential refuse service from the City of Tucson, and receive a City of Tucson Utility Services bill (water/trash bill) that includes the $14 ES fee. The bill must be in the applicant’s name, and the applicant must meet income eligibility requirements.

How do I qualify for the program?

Customers should review the 2008 family size and income requirements to determine if you qualify for this program. Applications are available by calling Environmental Services at 791-3171 or by visiting the ES website to download/print an application: (ES website: http://www.tucsonaz.gov/pdf/lowincomeapp.pdf) (Adobe Acrobat required)

How do I calculate my income?

Income is considered the combined income of all persons living in the home, including: salary (before-tax), child support, alimony, interest earnings, rental income, and temporary assistance (Supplemental Security income, State Supplemental Payment, Social Security, Veteran, Disability, Unemployment, Retirement benefits and other cash public assistance.)

How long is the program good for?

The certification for the ES Low Income Assistance Program runs from January to December of each calendar year. You must re-apply by the end of every year to receive the credit for the following year. ES will send notification to re-apply prior to the December deadline.

What are common problems to avoid?

Make sure all areas of the application are complete, including signing the application.

Make sure you live in the City of Tucson, and receive a monthly $14 bill from the City for refuse service. (Tenants are NOT eligible if they do not pay for refuse, if they pay their landlord for refuse, or if they pay a private company for refuse service.)

Updated 01/08/08