Struggling to Pay Your Heating Bills in MA? Help Is Available…
Winter can be hard on families in New England, especially those that are struggling to make ends meet. The good news is that there is help available if you need temporary relief from the cost of your heating oil and propane deliveries – thanks to LIHEAP.
Here are some common questions about LIHEAP services – if you have any more, please contact us – we’re here to help.
What is LIHEAP?
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded assistance program that provides eligible households with help in paying a portion of winter heating bills.
Who is eligible?
Homeowners and renters, including households whose cost of heat is included in the rent, may apply at their local agency for assistance.
Eligibility is based on household size and the gross annual income of every household member 18 years of age or older. Household income may not exceed 60 percent of the estimated State Median Income.
For information about other factors that could impact the eligibility of a household, please contact your local fuel assistance agency.
What services does the program cover?
This program provides a fixed benefit amount for the cost of the primary source of heat with includes, but is not limited to: oil, electricity, natural gas, propane, kerosene, wood, and coal. If eligible, discounts are automatically given on:
- Electric bills for investor owned electric utilities
- Gas bills for investor-owned gas utilities
- Telephone bills
Payments for actual usage or fuel delivery are made directly to the heating vendor for primary energy needs from November 1st to April 30th except when the cost of heating is included in the rent.
How do I apply for LIHEAP in Massachusetts?
In person
- There is no online application form for fuel assistance services; first-time applicants must apply in person at the fuel assistance agency in their area – which can be found using our Service Provider Locator.
- Households must apply each year; applications are mailed to households after the first year.
- Households can apply from November 1st to April 30th of the program year.
- Applicants who are denied assistance have the right to appeal through the local fuel assistance agency.
- For further information, please consult the Mass.gov Cold Relief Brochure.
By phone
- Call the Cold Relief Heatline at (800) 632-8175, or contact you local administrating agency using our Service Provider Locator.
Stay safe and warm this winter with reliable heating oil and propane deliveries in Western MA. Contact us today to learn more, or to become an FSi customer.