Housing & Utilities

Affordable Connectivity Program

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a U.S. government program that helps many low income households pay for broadband service and internet connected devices. You are likely eligible if your household’s income is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Line, or if you or someone you live with currently receives a government benefit like SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, WIC, Pell Grant, or Free and Reduced-Price Lunch.

Website: https://www.affordableconnectivity.gov/

AT&T Low Cost Internet

Access from AT&T is a low-cost program for limited income households who participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to receive low-cost internet access.

Website: https://www.att.com/internet/access/

Comcast Internet Essentials

Internet Essentials from Comcast brings affordable, high-speed Internet to your home. You may qualify if you are eligible for public assistance programs like the National School Lunch Program, Housing Assistance, Medicaid, SNAP, SSI and others. Internet access costs $9.95 a month and includes needed equipment. 

Website: https://www.internetessentials.com/

PC's For People

PCs for People provides affordable computers and low-cost internet eligible individuals and nonprofits. Eligibility requirements include photo identification and documentation of current enrollment in an income-based government assistance program OR documentation of current household income (under 200% of the federal poverty level or 60% of area median income). No proof of citizenship is needed

Website: https://www.pcsforpeople.org/get-technology/

RCN Internet First

Reliable, fast internet access is a necessity! The Internet First program is affordable Internet designed to help families and students in low-income households have reliable access to the internet. Fast internet for home schooling, homework, accessing educational resources, and more. Access costs $9.95 a month. 

Website: https://www.rcn.com/internet-first/

Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP)

The Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP) provides rental assistance vouchers to applicants with disabilities who are not elderly and who have been determined eligible for Chapter 667 (elderly/handicapped) housing.

Website: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/alternative-housing-voucher-program-ahvp

Boston Rental Relief Fund

The City of Boston is dedicating federal funds to help Boston residents who have been economically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and are having difficulty paying their rent. Check your eligibility here. Please note that the Rental Relief Fund Application is closed. A new version will launch in early 2024.

Website: https://www.boston.gov/departments/neighborhood-development/office-housing-stability/rental-relief-fund

Catholic Charities

The Basic Needs Department can provide one-time and ongoing relief assistance, crisis intervention, case management, self-sufficiency coaching, and other services needed in the communities. In addition, the department provides emergency support services, including food pantries, rent and mortgage assistance, utility assistance, baby supplies, clothing and other necessities.

Website: https://www.ccab.org/?q=basic-needs

Email: basic_needs@ccab.org

Phone (Basic Needs Hotline): 617-464-8500

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP)

HCVP increases affordable housing choices for very low-income households by helping families pay a portion of their rent in privately owned housing. Section 8 wait times may be very long (often multi-year). 

Website: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/section-8-housing-choice-voucher-program-hcvp

Phone: 617-573-1150

ABCD Boston Energy Resources

• Utility Bill Advocacy: Through partnerships with National Grid and Eversource, ABCD can help you reduce your overdue utility bills (arrearages) and avoid shutoffs when you adhere to a payment plan structured to meet your needs.

• Conservation: With the help of our partners Eversource, ABCD can often lower your electric bills with free energy efficient light bulbs, water conservation materials and possibly a new refrigerator, air conditioner, dehumidifier or front loading washing machine if your existing appliances are inefficient.

• Heating Systems: You may be eligible to have your heating system repaired or replaced, get emergency response when you have no heat, and receive equipment tune-ups.

• Weatherization: ABCD's Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) helps you reduce your heating and air conditioning costs. ABCD can install attic and wall insulation, weather stripping, and air sealing at no cost.

Website: https://bostonabcd.org/service_categories/energy/

Discounts for Low-Income Households

Some utility programs have discount rates for qualifying low-income households.

• Eversource: Available to residential customers whose bill is under their name and who are currently receiving benefits under a means-tested program.

• National Grid: Available to residential customers whose bill is under their name and who are currently receiving benefits under a means-tested program.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (Fuel Assistance)

Known commonly as Fuel Assistance, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides eligible households with help in paying a portion of winter heating bills.

Now, new and returning households may apply for Home Energy Assistance online via the applicant portal. Simply visit https://www.toapply.org/MassLIHEAP. Your local agency is available to assist you as needed.

Website: https://www.mass.gov/service-details/learn-about-low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap

Paying Your Utility Bill: Your Rights

If you are having trouble paying your utility bills, here's information you should know. Every consumer's situation is slightly different, so please contact the Consumer Division if you have questions or need immediate assistance.

Website: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/help-paying-your-utility-bill