Massachusetts Opens Winter Heating Aid Applications
Residents in Cambridge and Somerville can submit HEAP requests through April 30, 2027, with benefits ranging from $600 to $1,450.
By Julia Wang ·
The deadline for securing winter heat assistance in Massachusetts is approaching, requiring households to act before the end of April. The Home Energy Assistance Program, formerly called Fuel Assistance, provides funds to cover heating bills for the 2026-2027 season. Applications remain open until April 30, 2027, for residents of Cambridge and Somerville. Other cities manage their own local agencies for the same program.
Eligibility hinges on total gross household income, which must not exceed 60% of the state median. For a single individual, that cap sits at $53,585. A household of four faces a limit of $103,049. These thresholds increase for larger families, reaching $136,024 for six people. Not all income counts toward this calculation, so those near the boundary should consult their local agency before applying.
Benefit amounts vary by family size, income, and fuel type. A family of four with income up to $103,049 can receive between $870 and $1,450 if they heat with oil or propane. Those using gas or electricity receive between $600 and $1,000. Governor Maura Healey declared an energy emergency in October, creating a new benefit of up to $680 for four-person families with incomes up to $171,749. Payments go directly to the heating utility, and qualifying families automatically receive discounts on electric and gas bills.
Applicants must submit specific documents to verify their status. The primary applicant needs a photo ID, a list of all household members, and heating bill details including the utility name and account number. Renters provide a lease agreement, while owners submit a mortgage statement. Proof of income for the last 30 days is also required. The application itself is free; any fee charged for processing is outside the official program rules.
Cambridge and Somerville residents have three submission methods. They can apply online through the state portal, mail documents to the Department of Human Service Programs at 51 Inman Street, or visit the office on the first floor. A drop box is located near the basement entrance on Inman Place. Applicants can call 617-665-6234 to check their status. Staff can assist within 24 hours if a household has lost heat, has less than one-eighth of a tank of oil, or received a disconnection notice.
Outside these two cities, specific agencies serve different regions. ABCD handles Boston and East Boston, while ABCD Mystic Valley covers Everett, Malden, and Medford. CAPIC serves Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop. GLCAC assists residents of Lawrence, Methuen, and Andover. Community Teamwork operates in Lowell, and Lynn Economic Opportunity serves Lynn. Worcester Community Action Council and Springfield Partners for Community Action handle those respective cities. Valley Opportunity Council covers Holyoke and Chicopee.
Families heating with oil who exceed the standard income limit may qualify for the Middle-Income Heating Oil Relief program, expected to open in December. Utility companies cannot cut service to customers on discount rates between November 15, 2026, and March 15, 2027. Residents in unlisted cities can find their agency via the state HEAP website, call the Cold Relief line at 800-632-8175, or dial 2-1-1 for 24-hour assistance with translation.
