How to apply for Weatherization Assistance Program — Massachusetts

Who it's for

Massachusetts' Weatherization Assistance Program makes free home energy-efficiency improvements — an average of $4,725 in insulation, air sealing, and related measures — for households eligible for Fuel Assistance (income at or below 60% of the state median; households receiving SSI or TAFDC qualify automatically). Priority goes to households with elderly members or people with disabilities. The Fuel Assistance application is also the weatherization application; homeowners and tenants with the landlord's permission can apply.

What you'll need

• Same as Fuel Assistance — the HEAP application covers weatherization

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Weatherization Assistance Program — 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 same as fuel assistance — the heap application covers weatherization — 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 you are eligible by checking that your household income is at or below 60% of the state median — or that someone in the home receives SSI or TAFDC, which qualifies you automatically.
2. Note that if elderly members, people with disabilities, or young children live in the home, your household may receive priority scheduling for weatherization work.
3. If you are a tenant, get written permission from your landlord before applying, as their approval is required for work to be done on the property.
4. Gather the documents needed for the Fuel Assistance (HEAP) application, since that single application also covers the Weatherization Assistance Program.
5. Apply online or call 1-800-632-8175 to reach your local HEAP and weatherization agency and submit your application.
6. Complete any follow-up steps the local agency requests, such as a home energy assessment or additional paperwork.

What to expect: After submitting your Fuel Assistance application, the local agency will also review you for the Weatherization Assistance Program. Because weatherization work is scheduled based on a priority ranking — with elderly members, residents with disabilities, young children, and households with high energy costs given preference — wait times can vary. Ask your local agency for an estimate of when work might be scheduled. Once approved and scheduled, a trained crew will make free energy-efficiency improvements such as insulation and air sealing at no cost to you. Weatherization is a one-time benefit per home, so no annual renewal is needed.

Renewals

as needed (one-time per home)