The Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) is excited to announce the beginning of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for the 2023-2024 winter heating season. LIHEAP is a critical, free statewide service, funded by the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, aimed at ensuring that eligible households stay warm and cozy during the chilly winter months by covering a portion of their heating bills.
Many Massachusetts residents rely on LIHEAP to pay their utility bills on time, since the program offers much-needed assistance to afford heating costs during the cold months. The program accepts online applications at toapply.org/massliheap and extends financial aid to income-eligible households from November 1, 2023, through April 30, 2024. Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, you can apply online or through local administering agencies for LIHEAP assistance.
Who is Eligible for LIHEAP in Massachusetts?
This financial aid program extends its support to a wide range of heating sources, making it accessible to a diverse set of households. Qualifying households, including those with heating costs included in their rent, can receive assistance for all types of heating sources, such as oil, electricity, natural gas, propane, kerosene, wood, and coal.
“The Massachusetts home energy assistance program is free, because no resident should have to worry about heating their home during the wintertime,” said Ed Augustus Jr., Secretary of Housing and Livable Communities. “High fuel costs can have a devastating effect on household budgets and can even endanger Massachusetts’ most vulnerable residents. We encourage anyone who needs heating assistance to explore their eligibility by applying online or visiting the nearest administering agency. And to please share the information with loved ones or neighbors who could benefit from this free resource.”
Applying for LIHEAP: Hurry Up, Because The Resources Are Limited
If you or someone you know needs heating assistance, the application process is straightforward and can be done online or by visiting the nearest administering agency. Don’t miss this opportunity to access a vital resource that can make a real difference in your life.
IF you’re wondering how to get in touch with your local LIHEAP agency, just visit www.toapply.org/MassLIHEAP for more information and to find the agency nearest to you. It’s a crucial step in ensuring that you receive the assistance you need to keep your home warm and comfortable this winter.
You can also go directly to the official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, where you’ll find more data about the statewide LIHEAP program.
To find your agency:
- Check the Online Portal or use this lookup tool
- Call Cold Relief Heatline: (800) 632-8175.
- Read the Cold Relief Brochure 2024 (ID your local agency by matching the number next to your town name to the agency number)
Income Eligibility:
Your household income should stay within the limits of 60% of the estimated State Median Income in Massachusetts. For instance, in 2024, this means that for a family of two, the income should not exceed $59,359, and for a family of four, it should not surpass $87,294.
To make it easy for you, you can refer to the table below and check the FY 2024 income guidelines. You’ll also find a comprehensive FY 2024 LIHEAP Income Eligibility and Benefit Chart where you can locate the income limits under the “60% of estimated state median income” column.