HEAP – Home Energy Assistance
The Massachusetts’ Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a free resource, offered by Community Action, Inc. (CAI) in partnership with the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities , to help eligible households pay a portion of winter heating bills. This is the place to apply and get the process started.
No matter what type of heating source you have, HEAP may be able to help you pay your winter heating bills. All Massachusetts residents are encouraged to explore eligibility for this free program and apply for assistance.
CAI Energy programs serve the following Massachusetts cities and towns: Amesbury, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Merrimac, Newbury, Newburyport, Rowley, Salisbury and West Newbury.
How to Apply
If you are new to the program, you can begin the application process here or set up a telephone or in person appointment at Community Action, Inc. 3 Washington Square on the 2nd Floor (Monday–Thursday by appointment at 978-373-1971). If you are returning to the program, you can begin the application process or complete the paper application that was mailed to your address on file. We are happy to provide free assistance if you need help completing the application.
As part of the application process, please be prepared to share necessary information, including but not limited to photo identification, a list of all household members, proof of income, information on your heating bills, and your housing situation.
Eligible Applicant Information
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 (for example, for HEAP Program Year 25/26, $67,709 for a family of 2 and $99,573 for a family of 4). To learn if you are eligible, apply here.
To check application status 24/7 call: 978-374-7660
Home Energy Assessment
Action Inc. Energy Services can help you save money by lowering your overall energy expenses – at no cost to you. If you are a renter or homeowner who receives Home Energy Assistance (HEAP) or a discount rate through National Grid, you may be eligible for no-cost energy improvements that will make your home more comfortable and more affordable.
These programs are offered through our partner agency Action Inc. Energy Services. Please visit their website @actionincenergy.org or call 978-283-2131 to learn more.
Heating System Assistance (HEARTWAP)
The Heating Emergency Assistance Retrofit Task Weatherization Assistance Program (HEARTWAP) provides heating system repair and replacement services to eligible low-income homeowners. The program operates year round. The program serves as an emergency intervention service to provide assistance to low-income homeowners having problems with the operation of their primary heating system. HEARTWAP services vary depending on the specific needs of the housing unit.
Weatherization
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provides up to $7500 in added insulation, and general plugging of air leaks to homes and apartments for those households eligible for HEAP. This program also operates year round. WAP services vary depending on the specific needs of the housing unit.
HEAP FAQs
What is HEAP and how can HEAP help me?
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.
The HEAP application is FREE! No fee is required to apply and we offer free help to complete applications. Beware of scams charging an “application fee” to help submit an application.
Even if heat is included in the cost of rent, you may still be eligible for home energy assistance.
HEAP provides assistance for all sources of heat, including oil, electricity, natural gas, propane, kerosene, wood and coal.
Upon approval, payments are made directly to your heating company.
You can also check income eligibility and benefit levels. Please note that benefit levels are dependent on funding allocated to Massachusetts by the US Department of Health and Human Services. Housing subsidies will also determine specific benefit levels.
Will HEAP pay for my heating bill for the entire winter season?
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.
How are benefit levels determined?
Generally, benefits levels are determined based on home energy costs, taking into account household size and income, as well as other factors.
If I rent or live in subsidized or public housing, can I receive help from HEAP?
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 said I don’t qualify for HEAP. I think you made a mistake. What can I do?
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, visit our office at 3 Washington Square, 2nd Floor in Haverhill, MA. or call us at 978-373-1971. We will explain the appeals process to you.