How to apply for Money Management Program — Free Bill-Paying Help for Older Adults

Who it's for

Free help managing personal finances for income-eligible Massachusetts residents age 60 and older who have trouble keeping up with bills. Trained staff and volunteers help create a budget, pay bills on time, keep financial records, and deal with creditors; the program can also act as a representative payee. The program is run by the Executive Office of Aging & Independence with local Aging Services Access Points. Find your local Money Management coordinator through the program directory, or call MassOptions at 800-243-4636.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+
• Income information (the program is for income-eligible people; no figure is published)
• Recent bills and bank statements for the first visit

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Money Management Program — Free Bill-Paying Help for Older Adults. 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 proof of age 60+, income information (the program is for income-eligible people; no figure is published), recent bills and bank statements for the first visit — 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. Confirm that you or your loved one is age 60 or older and lives in Massachusetts. The program is for income-eligible residents, but no specific income figure is published — your local Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) will determine if you qualify.
2. Gather your documents before reaching out. You will need proof of age, income information, and recent bills and bank statements to bring to your first visit.
3. Find your local Money Management coordinator by using the program directory or by calling MassOptions at 1-800-243-4636. MassOptions can connect you to the right local ASAP.
4. Apply by phone at 1-800-243-4636 or online through the program's official application channel.
5. Speak with your local ASAP coordinator. They will review your situation, confirm your eligibility, and explain how trained staff or volunteers can help you budget, pay bills, keep financial records, and work with creditors.
6. Bring your proof of age, income information, and recent bills and bank statements to your first appointment so the coordinator can get started right away.

What to expect: After you connect with your local ASAP, a coordinator will review your documents and confirm your eligibility. Processing times vary, so ask your coordinator for an estimate of how long it takes to get matched with a staff member or volunteer. Once enrolled, help is ongoing — there is no set renewal deadline, but your coordinator may check in periodically to make sure the program still meets your needs. Keep in mind that eligibility is decided by your local ASAP; this walkthrough is not legal or financial advice and cannot confirm whether you meet the income requirements.

Renewals

ongoing