–
Each year, as the cold settles across Massachusetts, thousands of families might begin to quietly worry about how they’ll keep their homes warm. During 2024, an average household spent $2,023 on heating oil, $1,492 on propane, $1,080 on electric heat, or $907 on natural gas during the winter season. With costs like these, many households may face difficult trade-offs between paying for heat and covering food, rent, or other expenses. The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) exists to ease that burden, but misinformation often prevents residents from applying.
At Link Health Boston, we regularly hear questions and concerns from residents who aren’t sure if HEAP is an option for them. To support our communities, we’re breaking down the most common myths using accurate guidelines from Massachusetts’ fuel assistance program.
Myth #1: “Only homeowners qualify.”
Fact: HEAP is open to renters and homeowners, including people whose heat is included in their rent. The program is designed to support household stability, regardless of housing type or living situation.
Myth #2: “My income is too high. I won’t qualify.”
Fact: Households qualify if their income does not exceed 60% of the Massachusetts State Median Income, which is significantly higher than the federal poverty level. Because of this, many working families, especially those with high rent or seasonal income, are eligible.
Myth #3: “Only U.S. citizens can apply.”
Fact: This is one of the most harmful misconceptions we hear. HEAP only requires one household member, the applicant, to provide identification, and mixed-status families can safely apply. Acceptable IDs include everything from state IDs to foreign passports with attached employment authorization.
Myth #4: “It’s too complicated to apply.”
Fact: The application does require several documents, but most people already have what they need. This typically includes:
- A photo ID for the head of household
- A list of everyone who lives in the home
- Information about your heating company and account number
- Proof of your housing situation (lease or mortgage statement)
- 30 days of income documentation for all adults in the household
People can apply in person at their local fuel assistance agency or apply online, and once approved, payments go directly to the heating vendor, simplifying the process.
Myth #5: “It won’t help much anyway.”
Fact: HEAP sends a fixed benefit payment directly to your heating company between November 1 and April 30. Eligible households also receive automatic discounts on electric, gas, and telephone bills, helping stretch budgets even further.
As winter weather grows closer and utility costs increase, understanding the truth about HEAP can make a significant difference for our Massachusetts residents. With the right information, families can access the support they deserve and head into the colder months with one less worry.
Interested in applying? Learn more or get help applying through our Chatbot LEO!
Author: Shelby-Ann Neal
