It’s Time to Apply for Fuel Assistance
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Fall is here and as we begin to notice a chill in the air, we know that fuel assistance time is right around the corner!
What is fuel assistance? The Fuel Assistance Program, also known at Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides low-income renters and homeowners with financial support to pay their home heating bills from November 1-April 30. It is run out of SMOC in Framingham, but people across the state are trained in helping residents to apply.
Who is eligible? Homeowners and renters are eligible if they make 60% or less of the estimated state median income, even if heat is included in their rent. Please see the chart below and visit http://www.mass.gov/hed/docs/dhcd/cd/liheap/liheapbenefit.pdf for additional household sizes and details. Please note, individuals/families who spend less than 32% of their household income on rent are not eligible for this program. One must also be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident to apply.
| Household
Size |
Annual Income Limit |
| 1 | $34,001 |
| 2 | $44,463 |
| 3 | $54,925 |
| 4 | $65,387 |
| 5 | $75,849 |
| 6 | $86,311 |
How does one apply? For those who received fuel assistance through SMOC last year, SMOC will send out an information packet with a list of needed information to update the application. Information should be gathered and sent in to SMOC. For those who have never applied, or did not apply during the last benefit year, a full application must be submitted. If an individual or family in Sudbury needs an application or support completing an application, please contact one of the following people:
Seniors, contact Anne Manning at the Sudbury Senior Center: 978-639-3268
All others, contact Bethany Hadvab, Town Social Worker: 978-440-5476
The application process requires a great deal of paperwork and documentation. To ensure that all in need can get assistance, please call in advance to set up an appointment. When setting up an appointment, individuals will be informed what documentation should be brought to the appointment and what paperwork needs to be completed in advance. It is critical to bring all required information to the appointment. If you have any question, please do not hesitate to call the appropriate number above.
What types of documentation are needed? In addition to an application and supplementary forms, some of the other required documentation includes:
- Evidence of income for the past 30 days (wages, Social security benefits-SSA/SSDI/SSI/SSP, DTA/TANF, EAEDC, SNAP, Self-employment, Pensions, Interest/Dividend, Odd jobs, Rental income, Child support, Unemployment, Worker’s compensation, IRA, Veteran’s benefits, etc.)
- Housing expenses (mortgage statement, real estate tax bill, home owner’s insurance, condo fee, current lease, tenant profile from housing authority)
- Current copy of heating bill and 2-sided electric bill
- Photo ID for head of household
- Social security cards/proof of citizenship for all household members
Together, we will make this another successful fuel assistance season!