Fuel Assistance

You will need the following documentation in order to apply: 

• Current valid picture ID for the applicant 

• Proof of Address 

• Proof of citizenship or QAS (Qualified Alien Status) for all household members. 

• Proof of Income for all household members 

• Gas & Electric bills (and name of dealer if oil/kerosene/propane) 

• Copy of your lease, HOWEVER, please note, at your appointment you will be required to complete a rental information release form that we will mail to your landlord. 

• If applicable, copy of the recertification housing sheet or letter from the housing authority. 

• Wages (4 most recent pay stubs) 

• TANF, EAEDC, Social Security, SSI, VA, Workers’ Comp, Pensions (copy of most recent check stub) 

• Unemployment (copy of DUA claim record) 

• Alimony/Child Support (copy of checks, divorce decree, court order, DOR print out) 

• Bank Interest, Dividends (statement from bank, copies of checks, tax forms) 

• Rental Income (mortgage interest, property tax, water/sewer, insurance, proof of rent received) 

Self-Employment (copy of Federal Tax Return from previous year) 

HEAP is a federal program that helps qualified households within a certain income threshold pay a portion of their winter home heating bills.  In Massachusetts, HEAP eligible households may also get help with weatherizing their homes. 

While HEAP funds can only be used to help you pay to heat your home, by submitting an application you also apply for three additional programs: the federally funded Heating System Repair and Replacement Program (HEARTWAP) and Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP). Read more about HEARTWAP and WAP. 

HEAP is not designed to pay for all of your home energy costs for the year, but rather to reduce the burden of heating costs from your main heating source on your budget. However, many investor-owned utility companies (gas and electric) offer a discount rate, which reduces a certain percentage off your monthly bills just for being qualified for HEAP.   

Generally, benefits levels are determined based on home energy costs, taking into account household size and income, as well as other factors. 

Renters are eligible for HEAP assistance. Many renters pay for their energy costs directly, while others pay these costs indirectly, through their rent. In either case, you may be eligible for HEAP if you otherwise meet the program qualifications. 

You have the right to appeal any decision made by us.  The appeal process is outlined in the denial notice that you received.  If you didn’t receive a denial notice or cannot find the notice that explains the appeals process, contact our office for further information.  We will explain the appeals process to you. 

Eligibility for home energy assistance is based on several factors, including but not limited to household size and combined gross annual income of household members. Household income cannot exceed 60% of Massachusetts’ estimated State Median Income (you don’t need to link this one)- to view the full Income Eligibility and Benefit Levels, click here.

$51,777- 1 Person Household

$67,709- 2 Person Household

$83,641 – 3 Person Household

$99,573 – 4 Person Household

$115,504 – 5 Person Household

$131,436 – 6 Person Household