Massachusetts electric bill assistance is available through these programs

Are you living in Massachusetts and looking for help paying your electricity or utility bills? Believe it or not, there are several federal, state, and/or local government programs available to provide Massachusetts residents with electric bill assistance.

The biggest and most well known program available is known as Fuel Assistance, otherwise known as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This program is available to individuals and families who are considered low income based on their annual gross income.

Benefits available through LIHEAP include help covering the costs of your utility payments, costs of weatherization or upgrades to make your home energy efficient, emergency furnace repair, heating system repairs, and possibly even discounts on other utilities.

For information on benefits and applying, call 1-800-632-8175.

The Good Neighbor Energy Fund

If you are facing a sudden, short term emergency and you do not qualify for other assistance programs, the Good Neighbor Energy fund could be a life saver for you. The fund is a joint effort between utility companies and the Salvation Army, and provides funds for those in need to pay their winter heating fuel and other energy bills.

Massachusetts residents who do NOT qualify for governemnt assistance programs are eligible for this fund. Benefits are limited to $300 per household per season.

To learn more about this fund contact your local Salvation Army branch, or call the general toll-free number at 1-800-334-3047.

The Citizens Energy Heat Assistance Program

The Citizens Energy Heat Assistance Program is another private program providing relief to low income residents. There is a program for those who use heating oil, and another for those who use natural gas.

To learn more about the Citizens Energy programs, call 1-877-563-4645.

Arrearage Management Programs (AMPs) and Utility Payment Plans

If you have fallen behind on your utility payments and are unable to get caught back up, you may be able to contact your utility company directly and receive help.

Most utility companies offer plans to help you catch up on back payments or even forgive overdue bills in what are known as arrearage management programs or AMPs.

You may also be eligible for a utility payment plan which will allow you to pay your overdue bill over several smaller monthly payments.  For information on AMP’s or utility payment plans, contact your utility company directly. You can be matched with the appropriate Massachusetts electric bill assistance program based on your initial qualifications.

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