An Overview

What is fuel assistance?

Fuel assistance is a government program to help low-income families and individuals pay their heating bills during the winter.

Most people who get fuel assistance also qualify for other related energy assistance programs:

• free weatherization services to lower your fuel bills (for example, insulation and weather-stripping).
• heating system repair or replacement, for homeowners who are without heat because
• their heating systems don't work.
• discount rates with gas, electric, and telephone companies.
• electricity conservation programs, offered by the electric utility companies, to lower your electric bill by switching to a more energy-efficient refrigerator, lighting, water heater, etc., and installing insulation.
• for households heating with oil, a one-time half-price oil delivery (up to 175 gallons) per heating season through the Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program.

Funding for this program comes from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in the federal government. In Massachusetts, it is administered by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

Am I eligible?

Fuel assistance is for low-income tenants and homeowners, and eligibility is based on your household's gross annual income. If you rent, you may receive fuel assistance even if your heat is included in the rent.

Eligibility Check

The Fuel Assistance Eligibility Check is a service on the Mass.gov website and is an easy way for you to find out if you are likely to qualify for fuel assistance, by answering questions online about your household, your heating costs, and your income. You will see the results of the eligibility check right away, on your computer screen. Click here to try it out.

How do I apply?

You should call us at PACE, Inc. You can also call the Massachusetts Heat Line toll-free at 1-800-632-8175 for information. You will need documentation of your income and heating costs when you apply. You may apply any time during the heating season.