Weatherization Assistance Program (Massachusetts)

The Low Income Weatherization Assistance Program makes full home energy-efficiency improvements at no cost, delivered through local agencies, often the same agency that runs fuel assistance. Because the work stays with the home, the savings repeat for years. On average, $4,725 in energy-efficiency measures is available per eligible household.

Here is the step that saves you effort: your fuel assistance application is the weatherization application. There is no separate form. Any household eligible for fuel assistance is eligible for weatherization, and households with a member on TAFDC or SSI are categorically eligible. The income cap is 60 percent of state median income.

Renters are welcome, not just owners. Both homeowners and tenants qualify, with tenants needing their landlord's permission. Priority goes to households with elderly or disabled members, children six and under, high energy costs, and Native Americans, so say if any of those describe your home.

The work is real and professional. Common measures include air sealing, attic, sidewall, and floor insulation, pipe and duct insulation, and limited energy-related repairs, plus a heating-system evaluation and combustion-appliance health and safety testing. Licensed, insured local contractors do the work at no cost, and the agency inspects it afterward.

Applying follows the fuel assistance calendar. First-time applicants apply in person or online at their local energy assistance agency starting October 1 each year; after the first year, applications are mailed to returning households. Applying for HEAP simultaneously enrolls you in weatherization and the HEARTWAP heating-system repair program.

If you are denied, you have the right to appeal through your local energy assistance agency. To find yours, call the Cold Relief Heatline at 800-632-8175, and pair weatherization with fuel assistance for this winter's bill while the home gets fixed for every winter after.