How to apply for Fuel Assistance (HEAP / LIHEAP) — Massachusetts

Who it's for

Fuel Assistance helps income-eligible Massachusetts households pay heating costs from November 1 through April 30 — homeowners and renters alike, including renters whose heat is in the rent. Household income must be at or below 60% of the state median: $53,585 for one person or $70,073 for two under the current guidelines. Payments go straight to the heating vendor, and the same application covers heating-system repair (HEARTWAP) and weatherization. Apply online starting October 1, or through the local fuel-assistance agency; call the Cold Relief Heatline at 1-800-632-8175.

What you'll need

• Photo ID for the head of household
• List of household members
• Heating bill information
• Lease or mortgage statement
• Proof of income for the prior 30 days

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Fuel Assistance (HEAP / LIHEAP) — Massachusetts. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need photo id for the head of household, list of household members, heating bill information — is anything else required? What is the best next step?”

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your required documents: a photo ID for the head of household, a list of all household members, your heating bill information, a lease or mortgage statement, and proof of income for the prior 30 days.
2. Check that your household income is at or below 60% of the state median income for Massachusetts. Current guidelines are $53,585 for a one-person household or $70,073 for a two-person household.
3. Apply starting October 1 — either online or by calling the Cold Relief Heatline at 1-800-632-8175 to connect with your local fuel-assistance agency.
4. Submit your completed application with all required documents through your chosen channel — online or by phone with your local HEAP agency.
5. Ask the agency about processing times and what to expect next, as timelines can vary.

What to expect: After your application is reviewed and approved, payment goes directly to your heating vendor — you do not need to handle the funds yourself. The same application also considers you for heating-system repair through HEARTWAP and weatherization assistance, so you may be contacted about those programs as well. Because Fuel Assistance runs on the heating season (November 1 through April 30), you will need to reapply each year to continue receiving benefits. Keep in mind that the benefit amount depends on your household circumstances and available federal funding, so the exact amount can vary.

Renewals

annual (heating season Nov 1 - Apr 30)