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 between November 1 – April 30, please contact our office at 978-281-3900. Emergency situations will be responded to within 18 – 24 hours.
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.
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.
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:
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.