Massachusetts Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

The Massachusetts Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps residents with low-income pay their winter heating bills, making energy costs more affordable. This program may also be called Fuel Assistance or the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Since funding is limited, the amount you get from HEAP and how often you get it depends on your household and available resources.

How does Massachusetts HEAP work?

HEAP sends money directly to your heating company to help pay for your main heating costs from Nov. 1 through April 30. Your heating company may be an oil, propane, gas, or electric company. You can also get help if you heat your home with kerosene, wood, or coal.

Assistance through Massachusetts HEAP usually pays part of your heating costs, not the entire bill.

If you receive HEAP assistance and you’re a National Grid customer, you may also be eligible for a discount on your National Grid energy bill.

Who can get help from Massachusetts HEAP?

You can apply to get help from HEAP whether you rent or own your home. This is true even if you live in public housing or have a housing voucher and heat is included in your rent. You do not need to receive public assistance or have overdue heating bills to qualify.

Your local HEAP agency will decide if you’re eligible for assistance. Eligibility is mainly based on your household size and income. Generally, your income must be no more than 60% of the Estimated State Median Income. Many people who live on fixed incomes use this program, including older adults.

Check your eligibility for HEAP/LIHEAP assistance here.

Note:Qualifying for Massachusetts HEAP does not guarantee you will receive help. Funding is limited each year, so it’s important to apply as early as possible before the deadline. The sooner you apply, the better your chance of getting assistance.

What decides my Massachusetts HEAP benefit amount?

Your HEAP benefit amount is based on factors such as your household income, household size, heating costs, and the type of heating fuel you use. Each year, benefit amounts may also change based on how much funding Massachusetts receives from the government.

Priority is usually given to households with older adults, people with disabilities, and families with young children.

How do I apply for Massachusetts HEAP?

You can apply for HEAP online, by mail, or in person.

Visit the HEAP client portal to learn more and start your application. You can also type in your ZIP code to find the HEAP agency in your area and apply in person (or call the Massachusetts Heat Line at 1-800-632-8175).

When you apply, have the following handy:

• Photo ID

• Names of everyone in your household

• Proof of income

• Heating company information and account number

• Housing information (such as a lease or mortgage statement)

The online HEAP application opens on Oct. 1 each year for the upcoming heating season (Nov. 1 to April 30).

What happens after I apply for Massachusetts HEAP?

If you're applying for the first time, you must have an intake appointment with someone at your local HEAP agency. During this appointment, they’ll review the information provided in your application.

Once your application is complete along with all documents, your agency will review it to decide whether you qualify. If you’re approved for HEAP assistance, you’ll receive a notice with your benefit amount. Payments are typically sent directly to your heating company to help lower your heating bill.

How can I get help with my application?

There are several ways to get help applying for HEAP. You can:

• Contact your local HEAP agency. Visit the HEAP portal to find your agency or call the Massachusetts Heat Line at 1-800-632-8175.

• Ask a trusted family member or friend.

• Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near you. See if there’s one in your area.

• NCOA also has a HelpLine you can call to get free support. To get started today, call 1-800-794-6559.

What if I cannot get help from Massachusetts HEAP?

If Massachusetts HEAP cannot help you, there are other things you can try:

1. Talk to your utility company

Call your energy company and let them know you’re having trouble paying your bills. They may offer programs for people with low income, such as lower rates or payment plans.

2. Dial 2-1-1

Massachusetts may have other programs that help people pay their energy bills. Visit the 211 website or dial 2-1-1 for resources in your area.

3. Call a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC)

These local centers help older adults and people with disabilities find programs to help them afford food, health care, and energy bills. Click here to see if there is a BEC in your area.