Utility Assistance for Single Mothers in Massachusetts

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is built to save you time and stress. Every section starts with the first action you should take. Links go straight to official help so you can apply or call fast. Expect references to programs like Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP), EOHLC (the state housing and energy office), and the Department of Public Utilities (DPU). When we mention a program, we also link to it so you can click through and act right away. Verify key details with your local agency before you apply, and keep records of every call and upload. (mass.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

• Call the state Heatline now if you’re out of heat or facing shutoff: Use the Cold Relief Heatline (LIHEAP) at 1-800-632-8175, or apply online through the LIHEAP portal, and find your local agency via the EOHLC Resource Locator. For life‑threatening or no‑heat emergencies, agencies target action within 18–48 hours—say “crisis.” (mass.gov)
• Stop a shutoff today by claiming legal protections: If it’s between November 15 and March 15 and you need heat, or you have a baby under 12 months, serious illness, or all adults are 65+, your investor‑owned electric or gas utility cannot disconnect service without DPU approval—tell the utility you claim “financial hardship.” If they won’t restore service, call DPU Consumer Division at 1-877-886-5066 and read the Attorney General’s shutoff protections aloud. (mass.gov)
• Ask your utility for a forgiveness plan while you apply: Enroll in an arrearage management program—[National Grid AMP] at 1-866-580-7617, [Eversource New Start/RAMP] at 1-800-688-6160, or [Unitil Discount/AMP] at 1-888-301-7700—so a chunk of your old balance is forgiven each month you pay the agreed amount. Then add the LIHEAP application receipt to your file. (nationalgridus.com)

Quick Help Box — Keep These Five at Hand

• EOHLC Heatline and online LIHEAP site: Cold Relief Heatline (LIHEAP) 1-800-632-8175; LIHEAP portal; EOHLC Home Energy Assistance hub. (mass.gov)
• DPU problem line for shutoff disputes: DPU Consumer Division 1-877-886-5066; AG Utility Protections; Massachusetts law on winter heating. (mass.gov)
• Mass 2‑1‑1 for live help and referrals: Dial 2-1-1 or 1-877-211-6277; visit Mass 211; or use the EOHLC locator to find your local agency. (mass211.org)
• Utility company hardship lines (call to set plans): [National Grid Massachusetts] 1-866-580-7617, [Eversource Bill Help (MA)] 1-866-861-6225 East / 1-877-963-2632 West, [Unitil Customer Service (MA)] 1-888-301-7700. Also see [National Grid Discount Rate] details online. (nationalgridus.com)
• Rent/utility back‑up funds if LIHEAP isn’t enough: RAFT emergency housing cost help, HomeBASE for EA‑eligible families, and Salvation Army’s Good Neighbor Energy Fund for households at 60–80% of state median income. (mass.gov)

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How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Massachusetts Today

Start with the state protections, then line up money.

• Claim your right to winter shutoff protection: Tell your electric or gas utility you have a financial hardship and the heat is needed between November 15 and March 15, or that you have an infant, serious illness, or all residents are 65+ with a child in the home. Ask them to flag your account and restore service while they verify. Share the AG protections page, cite the DPU help page, and keep Massachusetts law on winter heating open during the call. (mass.gov)
• Apply for LIHEAP the same day and ask for “crisis”: Submit through the LIHEAP portal, call the Heatline at 1-800-632-8175, and find your local office via EOHLC’s locator. For no‑heat or shutoff emergencies, agencies target action within 18–48 hours; some local agencies target 18–24 hours during the season. (mass.gov)
• Enroll in a forgiveness plan with your utility: Ask for the arrearage program while LIHEAP processes. For National Grid, apply to [AMP (up to $12,000/yr forgiven)]; for Eversource, ask about [New Start] or [RAMP]; for Unitil, apply for the [Discount Rate/AMP]. While on the plan, a portion of your old balance is erased each month you pay the agreed amount. (nationalgridus.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call DPU at 1-877-886-5066 to file a complaint; call the Attorney General Consumer Hotline at 1-617-727-8400; and re‑try your LIHEAP agency via the Heatline to request a supervisor. (mass.gov)

Who Qualifies for Energy Bill Help Right Now

You likely qualify if your household income is at or below 60% of the Massachusetts state median income (SMI). You can confirm online at LIHEAP (HEAP) info, apply through the LIHEAP portal, or call Mass 211 for help. The season generally runs November 1 to April 30 for heating benefits; crisis help can run beyond for emergencies. (mass.gov)

FY25 income limits (examples)

Find the full grid on EOHLC’s HEAP page and in the FY25 Cold Relief Brochure; you can apply online at toapply.org/MassLIHEAP. (mass.gov)

Reality Check: Benefits depend on funding, fuel type, and income tier. Confirm current availability with your local agency before you count on a dollar amount, and ask about crisis prioritization if you have a shutoff or no‑heat. Use EOHLC’s locator and the Heatline to connect fast. (mass.gov)

LIHEAP (energy bill help) — What It Covers and How to Apply

Start here: Apply online at toapply.org/MassLIHEAP, call 1-800-632-8175, and use the EOHLC Resource Locator to find your local office for in‑person help. Keep the LIHEAP overview handy for eligibility. (mass.gov)

• Eligibility rules: Under 60% SMI, renters and homeowners qualify (even if heat is included in rent, if you’re not in a subsidized unit that already includes a utility allowance). See HEAP eligibility, confirm by phone via Mass 211, and ask your local agency about your exact tier. (mass.gov)
• Benefit levels: For FY25, Massachusetts lists a base heating benefit range around $200–$600 for regular assistance, with crisis up to $600; amounts vary by household and fuel type. Check the LIHEAP Clearinghouse profile and confirm with your local agency before you plan a budget. Mass.gov HEAP remains the official application site. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
• Timelines: For non‑crisis cases, expect about 10–15 business days after you submit all documents; for no‑heat or imminent shutoff, agencies target 18–48 hours to act. Keep receipts and upload confirmations from the portal, and save the Heatline number. (acf.hhs.gov)
• Required documents: ID, proof of address, household makeup, last 30 days income for everyone 18+, your current utility bill or fuel delivery slip, and if applicable a shutoff notice. Download the FY25 Cold Relief brochure, check LIHEAP FAQs, and ask your local agency for their checklist. (mass.gov)
• Real example: A single mom in Lowell who heats with gas applied online through toapply.org/MassLIHEAP, got expedited “crisis” help when National Grid issued a shutoff notice, and started an [AMP forgiveness plan] so $100 was forgiven each month she paid her budget amount. She kept AG shutoff protections printed by the phone. (nationalgridus.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor at your local LIHEAP agency, call the Heatline again and request a crisis flag, and consider Good Neighbor Energy Fund as a one‑time backup if you’re just above LIHEAP limits. (mass.gov)

HEARTWAP (Heating System Repair & Replacement)

Start here: If your heat is unsafe or not working, ask your LIHEAP agency to evaluate for HEARTWAP. It can repair or replace a broken boiler/furnace for LIHEAP‑eligible homeowners. Keep the EOHLC contact and Heatline handy. (mass.gov)

• Eligibility and scope: You must be LIHEAP‑eligible (≤60% SMI). During heating season, HEARTWAP focuses on emergencies; after the season, it may fund clean‑and‑tune or non‑urgent replacements if funding remains. See the HEARTWAP page and ask your local agency about timing. (mass.gov)
• How to apply: Apply for LIHEAP; your agency refers you to HEARTWAP. Use the agency finder and online application link; keep the Heatline number. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you rent and the heat is broken, report it to your landlord in writing, call your city’s inspectional services, and still apply for LIHEAP. Call DPU if a regulated utility refuses safe reconnection due to hardship protections. (mass.gov)

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Start here: Once you’re in LIHEAP, ask your agency to enroll you for WAP. It funds insulation, air sealing, and related safety work at no cost. Pair with Mass Save Income‑Eligible offers to stretch savings. (mass.gov)

• What you get: Air sealing, attic/wall insulation, health and safety checks; average allowable measures total about $4,725 per home. Work is done by licensed contractors and inspected by your local agency. See WAP details and the EOHLC energy hub. (mass.gov)
• How to apply: One LIHEAP application covers WAP. Use the online portal, the Heatline, or the agency finder. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about Mass Save Enhanced Offers if your income is just over LIHEAP; check EOHLC housing programs for repair loans; and call Mass 211 for local funds. (masssave.com)

Your Utility Company Programs (Use These With LIHEAP)

Start here: Call your utility about their discount rate and arrearage program the same day you apply for LIHEAP. Use the discount to drop future bills and the arrearage plan to erase old debt. Keep the AG protections open while you call. (mass.gov)

Quick comparison: discount rates and forgiveness

See DPU’s National Grid Order (tiered low‑income discounts), [National Grid AMP], [Eversource Discount Rate], and [Unitil Discount Rate] for specifics and enrollment. (mass.gov)

• Heat pump seasonal rate (check if you have or plan a heat pump): Ask your utility about new heat‑pump winter rates that lower distribution charges in heating months. Unitil’s rate started in 2025; Eversource and National Grid have active proceedings. See [Unitil Heat Pump Rate], DPU heat‑pump rate proceedings, and Energy Affordability agenda updates. (unitil.com)
• Mass Save income‑eligible efficiency: If you’re on a discount rate, ask for no‑cost assessments, insulation, and efficient appliances through Mass Save Income‑Eligible Programs. If you’re slightly over income, check Enhanced Offers that still cover insulation at no cost and bigger rebates. (masssave.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate with the utility’s credit/hardship team; then call DPU Consumer Division at 1-877-886-5066; and add Good Neighbor Energy Fund or RAFT as backstops. (mass.gov)

Water and Sewer Bill Help (City Examples You Can Use)

Start here: Call your city’s water/sewer billing office and ask for hardship payment plans or low‑income discounts. If you’re in Boston, start with BWSC Customer Service 617-989-7800; if outside Boston, check your city site and ask for a “Customer Assistance Program.” Save the AG protections page, because some medical and elder protections also apply to water. (bwsc.org)

Boston Water Bill Help

• BWSC hardship protections and payment plans: Seniors and fully disabled homeowners in 1–4‑family owner‑occupied homes can get a 30% discount on water, sewer, and stormwater. If you’re facing shutoff, ask Collections for a hardship plan and submit the financial hardship form. See BWSC billing assistance, BWSC discounts, and city Utility Resources. (bwsc.org)
• Need more time: If BWSC denies a plan, call Customer Service back, reference hardship, then contact AG Consumer Advocacy; the city also lists help on Utility Resources and Low‑income resources. (mass.gov)

Worcester Water Bill Help

• City discount (elderly): Worcester offers a quarterly discount for seniors who qualify for the Clause 41C exemption. Get details at City of Worcester Water & Sewer, apply through Assessors, and call Water Billing at 508-799-1440. If you need broader aid, call Mass 211. (worcesterma.gov)

Springfield Water Bill Help

• Customer Assistance Program (CAP): The Springfield Water and Sewer Commission CAP gives a one‑time annual credit equal to 25% of your yearly bill (up to $275), for low‑income owner‑occupied single‑family homes; reapply annually. Details and application at Customer Assistance Programs and CAP application. (waterandsewer.org)

Cambridge Water Bill Help

• Senior discount: Cambridge provides a 15% discount (up to $90/year) for owner‑occupant seniors 65+; 30% if you have the Clause 41C property tax exemption. See Cambridge Senior Water/Sewer Discount and Water bill rates and info. (cambridgema.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your city for emergency funds from local trusts or CDBG programs via EOHLC housing resources; use Mass 211; and try Good Neighbor Energy Fund if the issue is energy rather than water. (mass.gov)

One‑Time and Backup Help

• Good Neighbor Energy Fund (Salvation Army): If you’re between 60%–80% of SMI and don’t qualify for LIHEAP, apply for a one‑time grant to cover a month’s energy cost through magoodneighbor.org, or call 1-800-334-3047 (area codes 617/508/781/978) or 1-800-262-1320 (413). Check guidelines at the LIHEAP Clearinghouse MA page and ask your utility’s customer advocates. (liheapch.acf.gov)
• RAFT (rent and utility arrears): RAFT can cover back utility bills as part of housing stabilization; FY25 guidance set a $7,000 per 12‑month cap statewide—confirm current caps with your regional agency. Apply at RAFT portal and find your regional admin via Find My RAA. (mass.gov)
• HomeBASE (if you’re EA‑eligible): If you qualify for the state family shelter program, HomeBASE can pay up to $5,000 toward rent or utility arrears to secure a lease. Ask your worker; learn more at HomeBASE; keep EOHLC contacts handy. (mass.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply for TAFDC cash assistance with the DTA Assistance Line at 1-877-382-2363; ask DTA to expedite if you have no income. Also call United Way’s Mass 211 to search local church or charity funds. (mass.gov)

Internet and Phone Discounts

• Lifeline (ongoing phone/internet discount): Lifeline provides about $9.25/month off one phone or internet service. Apply through Lifeline (DTC), or go directly to lifelinesupport.org; the DTC consumer hotline is 1-800-392-6066. (mass.gov)
• ACP status: The federal Affordable Connectivity Program ended June 1, 2024 due to lack of funding; check FCC ACP updates and the archived ACP FAQ for current status and low‑cost plans. Ask your provider about hardship plans. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your carrier about “low‑income” or “basic” plans; apply for Lifeline; and request a payment plan just like you do with power and gas. (mass.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing the crisis box when you’re facing shutoff: If you have a shutoff notice or no heat, tell LIHEAP this is a crisis case and ask for a 18–48‑hour response. Keep the Heatline and AG protections ready. (mass.gov)
• Waiting to call the utility: Don’t. Enroll in [AMP/New Start] or a discount rate now—add LIHEAP to it later. Keep [National Grid AMP], [Eversource RAMP/New Start], and [Unitil Discount Rate] numbers saved. (nationalgridus.com)
• Submitting a half‑complete LIHEAP application: The 18/48‑hour clock starts when your application is complete with documents. Upload a clear picture of each doc through the portal and ask your agency to confirm “all set.” (acf.hhs.gov)
• Ignoring water bills: Water shutoffs cause huge headaches. Ask for hardship or senior discounts—see BWSC, Worcester, and Springfield CAP examples. (bwsc.org)

Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps

Money is limited and rules can change mid‑season. In February–April 2025, DPU ordered temporary bill reductions and even extended the winter shutoff moratorium to April 1 for investor‑owned utilities—helpful, but not guaranteed every year. Always ask for updated rules, and don’t stop at one program—stack them. See DPU press release, AG protections, and Energy Burden docket updates for current news. (mass.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Application Checklist (print or screenshot)

• Photo ID and Social Security numbers for all household members 18+; see HEAP eligibility, and ask your local agency what they accept.
• Proof of address and tenancy/mortgage: lease, rent receipt, mortgage, or letter; see LIHEAP info/apply and HEAP overview.
• Income for the past 30 days for everyone 18+: pay stubs, self‑employment log, benefits letters (SNAP, TAFDC, SSI, MassHealth) per HEAP rules.
• Your latest utility bills and any shutoff notice; upload via toapply.org/MassLIHEAP; keep a PDF of the AG protections.
• Fuel delivery slip or account for oil/propane/kerosene; keep vendor info; ask about crisis delivery timelines (aim 18–48 hours) from LIHEAP FAQs and ACF guidance. (acf.hhs.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied

• Ask for a written reason and an appeal: Appeals go through your local agency—find yours via the EOHLC agency finder; show updated income proof and hardship details. Keep HEAP rules open.
• File a utility complaint: If a utility won’t honor protections while you appeal, file with DPU Consumer Division and attach your LIHEAP application receipt and doctor note if there’s a serious illness. Keep AG protections handy.
• Add backup funding: Apply to RAFT and Good Neighbor Energy Fund; ask your utility about [AMP/New Start] and [Discount Rate] while you re‑apply. (mass.gov)

Diverse Communities — Targeted Tips and Contacts

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask caseworkers to use your chosen name and family structure on utility accounts; request respectful communication. Get health and legal support from Fenway Health, check Mass Commission on LGBTQ Youth resources, and use Mass 211 for local help. If you face discrimination with a utility plan, call DPU Consumer Division. (mass.gov)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Ask for large‑print or translated applications and home visits when needed; agencies and EOHLC can arrange. Use Massachusetts Office on Disability for accommodation guidance, WAP for safety upgrades, and DTA for cash help. (mass.gov)
• Veteran single mothers: Chapter 115 benefits can help pay fuel and utilities; contact your local Veterans’ Service Officer and try the MassVets Benefit Estimator. Ask about annuity updates under the HERO Act at EOVS; link this aid with LIHEAP. (vets.mass.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many programs accept mixed‑status households; your kids’ eligibility can qualify the home. Use Mass 211 to find legal clinics, apply through LIHEAP, and ask your agency for interpreter services. For safety, you can give alternate contact addresses—ask about privacy options with your local agency.
• Tribal‑specific resources: Connect with your tribal administration (for example, Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe or Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah)). Pair that help with LIHEAP and local WAP options.
• Rural single moms (deliverable fuels): If you heat with oil/propane, ask LIHEAP for crisis delivery. Keep receipts ready and call the vendor as soon as you apply. Use Mass 211 and your regional CAA like Community Action Pioneer Valley for fuel assistance and weatherization. Confirm timelines (target 18–48 hours) under LIHEAP crisis standards. (acf.hhs.gov)
• Single fathers: You can apply for the same programs. If you need child support services while juggling bills, apply through DOR Child Support Services and use the Virtual Counter if getting to an office is hard. Pair with LIHEAP for bill relief. (mass.gov)
• Language access and accessibility: Ask every agency for free interpreter services and accessible formats—EOHLC and DTA both offer language support. For TTY/relay, dial 711; EOHLC TTY is 1-617-573-1140. Use Mass 211 if you need a live translator to find the right office. (mass.gov)

Resources by Region (Community Action Agencies and Key Partners)

Use the EOHLC agency finder by town and MassCAP Heating Help MA pages to confirm the right office. Pair with local charities listed below.

• Greater Boston: ABCD Fuel Assistance; Boston Utility Resources; BWSC Billing Assistance.
• Worcester / Central MA: Worcester Community Action Council; City Water/Sewer; Mass 211 for local churches.
• Merrimack Valley / Lowell–Lawrence: Community Teamwork (CTI); Greater Lawrence Community Action Council; National Grid MA Help. (nationalgridus.com)
• North Shore: North Shore CAP; City of Cambridge water discounts (nearby resource); Mass Save income‑eligible. (cambridgema.gov)
• South Coast / Fall River–New Bedford: Citizens for Citizens (Fall River); PACE New Bedford; National Grid AMP. (nationalgridus.com)
• MetroWest / Framingham: South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC); Mass 211; EOHLC locator.
• Pioneer Valley / Western MA: Community Action Pioneer Valley; Springfield Water & Sewer CAP; Berkshire Gas RAMP. (waterandsewer.org)
• Cape & Islands: HAC/HPCC (Housing Assistance on Cape Cod); St. Vincent de Paul (local conferences); Mass Save income‑eligible. (masssave.com)

Tables You Can Use

Table — Core Programs at a Glance

(mass.gov)

Table — Shutoff Protections Snapshot

See AG protections and DPU help for details. (mass.gov)

Table — Utility Discount & Forgiveness Quick Facts

Sources: DPU Order on National Grid LIDR; [National Grid AMP]; [Eversource Discount Rate]; [Unitil Discount Rate]. (mass.gov)

Table — Water/Sewer Local Examples

(bwsc.org)

Table — FY25 LIHEAP Income Limits (select sizes)

See HEAP eligibility and the Cold Relief Brochure. (mass.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, and Faith‑Based Help

• Catholic Charities Boston: Emergency fuel/utility help when funds are available; start at Catholic Charities Living Assistance, check locations, and call your local office to screen. Use Mass 211 if lines are busy. (ccab.org)
• Society of St. Vincent de Paul (local parish conferences): One‑time help with rent or utilities based on funds; find a local conference (examples: Concord‑Carlisle SVdP, Arlington SVdP). Pair with LIHEAP and your utility’s forgiveness plan. (svdpconcordcarlisle.org)
• United Way / Mass 211: Live referral to energy, rent, and local charity funds—dial 2-1-1 or visit Mass 211; check regional United Way pages for community grants like United Response. (mass211.org)

FAQs (Massachusetts‑specific)

1. How fast can LIHEAP help in a crisis: Crisis cases target 18–48 hours after a complete application; ask your agency to mark “no heat/shutoff.” Use the Heatline and cite the federal standard from ACF. (mass.gov)
2. Are there winter shutoff protections beyond March 15: The statute covers Nov 15–Mar 15, but in 2025 DPU extended the moratorium to April 1 for regulated utilities; ask DPU each year about extensions. See DPU news and AG protections. (mass.gov)
3. What if my landlord includes heat in rent: You can still apply for LIHEAP; your benefit may be smaller, but you may gain protections and access to WAP and HEARTWAP if you’re an eligible homeowner. (mass.gov)
4. How much does LIHEAP pay: FY25 regular benefits often range from roughly $200–$600; crisis may add help. Check your exact benefit with your local agency and review the LIHEAP Clearinghouse Massachusetts page. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
5. Can I get old bills forgiven: Yes—enroll in [National Grid AMP], [Eversource New Start/RAMP], or [Unitil AMP/Discount] so part of your arrears is erased each month you pay. You’ll likely need to be on the low‑income discount rate. (nationalgridus.com)
6. Where do I appeal a utility decision: File a complaint with DPU Consumer Division and keep your AG protections handy. Add proof of hardship and your LIHEAP receipt. (mass.gov)
7. Is there help if I just miss LIHEAP income limits: Try Mass Save Enhanced Offers, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, and ask your utility for a standard payment plan. (masssave.com)
8. What about internet help now that ACP ended: Apply for Lifeline and ask your ISP about low‑income plans; check ACP status at FCC ACP. (mass.gov)
9. Can veterans get extra help for utilities: Yes—Chapter 115 can help with fuel and utilities; start at EOVS Chapter 115 and your local VSO, and pair with LIHEAP. (mass.gov)
10. What if I owe child support and it’s affecting my budget: Contact DOR Child Support Services to review your order or set up a payment plan; use the Virtual Counter; and still apply for LIHEAP. (mass.gov)

Spanish Summary (resumen en español)

Esta es una breve guía para madres solteras en Massachusetts. Para ayuda de calefacción, solicite LIHEAP (asistencia de energía) por internet o llamando al 1-800-632-8175; si tiene un corte o no tiene calefacción, pida “crisis.” Reclame protecciones legales de invierno (15 de noviembre a 15 de marzo) según la Fiscalía General y llame a DPU al 1-877-886-5066 si la empresa no restaura el servicio. También pida planes de pago con perdón de deuda con [National Grid AMP], [Eversource New Start/RAMP], o [Unitil]. Para deudas de renta y servicios, use RAFT. Para descuentos de teléfono/internet, aplique a Lifeline. Nota: Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; confirme detalles con las agencias oficiales. (mass.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC)
• Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) — Mass.gov
• Heating System Repair & Replacement (HEARTWAP) — Mass.gov
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) — Mass.gov
• Department of Public Utilities (DPU) Consumer Division
• Attorney General — Shutoff Protections
• LIHEAP Clearinghouse — Massachusetts
• [National Grid AMP], [Eversource Discount Rate/New Start], [Unitil Discount Rate/Heat Pump Rate]
• Mass Save Income‑Eligible Programs
• Salvation Army Good Neighbor Energy Fund
• RAFT and HomeBASE — Mass.gov
• Lifeline — Mass.gov and FCC

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide follows our Editorial Standards, uses only official or authoritative sources, is regularly monitored and updated, but is not affiliated with a government agency and is not a substitute for official agency guidance. Outcomes can vary by household and funding availability. Please email info@asinglemother.org with corrections; we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only. Program rules, funding, and wait times can change quickly. Always confirm current eligibility, amounts, and timelines with your local agency or utility before you make financial decisions. Use the EOHLC locator, the Heatline, and DPU Consumer Division to verify the latest details. (mass.gov)

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Notes on timelines and amounts

• According to official FY25 materials, LIHEAP eligibility is ≤60% SMI; benefits and crisis assistance vary by fuel type and funding; and program season runs Nov 1–Apr 30, with crisis support beyond in some cases. Confirm with your local LIHEAP agency before you rely on specific dollar amounts or dates. See HEAP eligibility, Cold Relief Brochure, and LIHEAP Clearinghouse. (mass.gov)
• DPU’s 2025 announcements about temporary gas bill reductions and an April 1 moratorium extension were specific to that heating season; ask DPU each year if similar relief applies. See DPU press release. (mass.gov)
• National Grid’s tiered electric discounts (32%–71%) are in DPU’s 2024–2025 order; timelines and ranges may change as implementation proceeds. See D.P.U. 23‑150 Order and Energy Burden docket. (mass.gov)

Where we cite private utility pages, treat those as program descriptions; the governing rules come from DPU orders and state law. Always call to confirm current availability before applying.

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