Here to help with your heating costs
Did you know that as many as 1 in 3 families living in Cape Ann may be eligible for help with their utilities?
The Massachusetts Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP, Fuel Assistance) is a free resource offered by Action Inc. and the state of MA to help eligible households pay a portion of their winter heating bills. You’ve reached the right place to apply and get the process started!
No matter what type of heating source you have (gas, oil, electric, propane, wood, kerosene, etc.), we may be able to help you pay your winter heating bills.
EMERGENCIES: If your household is experiencing a heating emergency due to a lack of fuel or utilities, please contact our office at 978-281-3900 to speak with a staff member, or to leave a message if staff is unavailable. Emergency situations will be responded to within 18- 24 hours.
How to apply
If you’re new to the program, you can begin the application process online here. If you’re returning to the program, you can begin the application process here or complete the the paper application that was mailed to your address.
We are happy to provide free assistance if you need help completing the application. Please contact our office at 978-281-3900.
As part of the application process, please be prepared to share necessary information including photo identification, a list of all household members, proof of income, information on your heating bills, and your housing situation.
How to qualify
Eligibility for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is based on several factors, including your household size and combined gross annual income. If your total household income falls within the state’s guidelines (see chart), we may be able to help pay your heating bills during the winter months.
To qualify for HEAP through Action Inc., you must live in one of the following cities or towns: Gloucester, Essex, Ipswich, Hamilton, Manchester, Rockport, or Wenham.
2024-2025 Application Forms
Follow the link below for additional HEAP forms in English, Portuguese, & Spanish
Utility discounts
Are household bills taking over your life? National Grid gas and electric customers can now contact National Grid directly to enroll in the Arrears Management Program (AMP). For customers who are eligible, AMP provides 100% forgiveness of a past due bill. You must have an active residential account, be income-eligible, and the name of the customer applying must match the name on the National Grid account.
For more information or to enroll in AMP, call National Grid at 1-866-580-7617.
National Grid Gas
25% discount. Discounted rate of R-4 on residential heating bill and R-2 on non-heating bill. Click here for application.
National Grid Electric
32% discount. Discounted rate of R-2 on electric bill. Click here for application.
Heating Oil
Discount on oil usage up to allotted benefit amount. Please call the Home Energy Assistance direct line at 978-281-3900 to learn more.
*All discounts are approximate
Protection from utility termination
If you are experiencing financial hardship, you may be protected against having your utilities shut off during the winter per an order of the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities. Action Inc. can help you work with utility providers if you receive a termination notice to keep or restore power to your home. Please call us at 978-281-3900 for assistance.
Utility payment plans
Our support staff is here to guide eligible residents through the process of establishing payment plans with their utility companies. State law requires that utility companies offer payment plans of no less than four months or four equal payments. If you are at risk of having your utilities shut off, or if they have already been terminated, your utility company is obligated to work with you to establish a reasonable payment plan. If your household meets certain income guidelines and your account has not yet been terminated, the utility company must accept 25 percent of the overdue amount as the first payment. If your account has already been terminated, you still have the right to work with the utility company to create a reasonable payment plan. If your utility company refuses to set up a payment plan, call the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities Consumer Division at 617-392-6066 to ask for assistance.
Energy Efficiency Services & Heating Systems
If you are a homeowner or renter who receives Home Energy Assistance (Fuel Assistance) or the discount rate through National Grid, you could be eligible for no-cost energy improvements that will make your home more comfortable and more affordable. Services may include:
- weatherizing your home by adding insulation, air sealing, and weather stripping
- repairing or replacing your heating system if it’s outdated or not working properly
- replacing lighting fixtures, window air conditioners, and appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines
Please visit our Energy Services website for more information or call 978-283-2131 to speak with someone on our energy efficiency team.
EMERGENCIES: If your household is experiencing a heating system emergency, please contact our office at 978-283-2131 to speak with a staff member, or to leave a message if staff is unavailable.
Frequently asked questions
How do I qualify for HEAP? (fuel assistance)
Can I qualify for discounted electric and/or gas rates if I don't receive HEAP? (fuel assistance)
Do I have to pay for HEAP? (fuel assistance)
What areas of Massachusetts can receive HEAP? (fuel assistance)
Is there a deadline for assistance?
