What heating-cost help is open in New England right now?

HEAP (fuel assistance)

Open nowMassachusettsHeating-bill helpRenters can apply

Status: Applications open since Oct 1, 2026. Help covers Nov 1, 2026 to Apr 30, 2027.

Pays part of winter heating bills (oil, gas or electric). Per the state's Oct 2026 announcement, oil-heat households get a 20% increase and utility-heat households a 15% increase; the state one-pager lists $600 to $1,450 depending on income and how you heat.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Gross income at or below 60% of state median income. 2026-27 limits (annual): 1 person $53,585; 2 $70,073; 3 $86,561; 4 $103,049; 5 $119,536; 6 $136,024. Homeowners and renters can apply, including renters whose heat is included in the rent. You do not need to be behind on bills or on other public assistance.

Run by

Local community action agencies; info at mass.gov/heatinghelp

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, gas, electric, propane, wood/pellets

• 2026-10-01: Online applications open
• 2026-11-01: Benefit period starts
• 2027-04-30: Benefit period ends

Heads up: Benefits run until funds are used up. Massachusetts Heat Line: 1-800-632-8175 (per National Grid's HEAP page).

Go to the official page

Sources: MASSCAP: Heating Help in Massachusetts · Mass.gov: Governor Healey announces new winter energy bill relief · Mass 211 one-pager, Winter Energy Bill Relief · National Grid: HEAP
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Mass Save air-source heat pump rebates (2026 rates)

Open nowMassachusettsHeat pump & equipment rebatesRenter rules not stated

Status: 2026 installs only: install by Dec 31, 2026; paperwork due Feb 28, 2027. Rebates drop for 2027 installs.

2026: whole-home $2,650 per ton up to $8,500; partial-home $1,125 per ton up to $8,500; basic $250 per ton up to $2,500; income-based enhanced incentives up to $16,000 (or no cost through Turnkey Services). From Jan 1, 2027: whole-home $2,350 per ton capped at $7,500; partial-home $1,000 per ton capped at $7,500.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Installed by a contractor in the Mass Save Heat Pump Installer Network, using equipment on the Heat Pump Qualified Product List (R-410A systems were removed from the list Jan 1, 2026). Home must be occupied full time in winter. Whole-home rebates require the heat pump to be the sole heating/cooling source and the home to be sufficiently weatherized (built 2000 or later, an assessment recommending under $1,000 of work, or recommended work completed). Partial-home keeps a backup system with an integrated control.

Run by

Mass Save (utilities)

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, gas, propane, electric

• 2026-12-31: Last day to install for 2026 rebate rates
• 2027-01-01: Lower rebate rates start for 2027 installs
• 2027-02-28: Rebate form and documents must be received

Heads up: Starting in October 2026 a serial-number photo of each outdoor unit is required on applications (per Mass Save). Get the rebate expectations in writing from your installer before work starts. Read the whole-home vs partial-home rules; homeowners on r/massachusetts report confusion about them.

Go to the official page

Sources: Mass Save: Air Source Heat Pumps · Mass Save: Heat Pump Qualified Product List
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Middle-Income Heating Oil Relief (new this winter)

Opens soonMassachusettsHeating-bill helpRenter rules not stated

Status: Applications open in December 2026 (no exact day published on the page we read). Runs through Apr 30, 2027 or until funding runs out.

One-time emergency payment of up to $680 for households that heat with #2 heating oil and earn too much for HEAP. The state estimates about 50,000 households may qualify.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Heat with #2 home heating oil and total gross household income above 60% but below 100% of state median income. Examples (FY2027): 1 person $53,586 to $89,308; 2 $70,074 to $116,788; 3 $86,562 to $144,268; 4 $103,050 to $171,749; 5 $119,537 to $199,227; 6 $136,025 to $226,707.

Run by

Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities; run through the same local agencies as HEAP

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil

• 2026-12-01: Applications expected to open (state says 'December 2026')
• 2027-04-30: Program end or until funds run out

Heads up: The state offers an interest form for an opening notification; that form is not the application.

Go to the official page

Sources: Mass.gov: Middle-Income Heating Oil Relief · WWLP report
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Good Neighbor Energy Fund (Salvation Army)

Year-roundMassachusettsEmergency / crisis helpRenters can apply

Status: Listed by MASSCAP as an option for limited-income households that do not qualify for fuel assistance.

Help for limited-income households that are not eligible for fuel assistance. Phone numbers published by MASSCAP: area codes 617, 508, 781, 978: 1-800-334-3047; area code 413: 1-800-262-1320.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Not detailed on the page we read. Call to ask.

Run by

Local Salvation Army

Heads up: We did not verify current funding. Call first.

Go to the official page

Sources: MASSCAP: Heating Help in Massachusetts
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Mass Save no-cost Home Energy Assessment, insulation discounts and 0% HEAT Loan

Year-roundMassachusettsInsulation & weatherizationRenter rules not stated

Status: Ongoing.

A no-cost home energy assessment identifies insulation and air-sealing work. Mass Save lists 75% to 100% off approved insulation and air sealing; income-eligible households may get no-cost upgrades. The 0% HEAT Loan goes up to $25,000 for eligible measures (up to $50,000 combined with heat pump financing, per Mass Save).

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Insulation must be specified and installed by a participating Mass Save contractor for the loan; DIY work does not qualify. Income-based offers require income verification.

Run by

Mass Save (utilities)

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, gas, propane, electric

Heads up: Customers of some municipal electric utilities are served differently; ask your utility.

Go to the official page

Sources: Mass Save: Insulation and Air Sealing · Mass Save: Income-based offers · Mass Save: 0% Interest Financing
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Weatherization (WAP), heating system repair/replacement (HEARTWAP) and appliance program (AMP)

Year-roundMassachusettsInsulation & weatherizationRenter rules not stated

Status: Year-round programs for income-eligible households.

WAP covers air sealing, attic/sidewall insulation, weather-stripping and related repairs. HEARTWAP repairs, replaces and maintains heating systems. AMP (with National Grid and Eversource) can replace certain inoperable or inefficient appliances after an energy audit.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Income-eligible households; MASSCAP points to the same income chart as fuel assistance (60% of state median income).

Run by

Local community action agencies (via MASSCAP)

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, gas, propane, electric

Go to the official page

Sources: MASSCAP: Heating Help in Massachusetts
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Heat pump electric rate (seasonal discount on delivery charges)

Check with agencyMassachusettsGood to knowRenter rules not stated

Status: Mass.gov says all three major electric utilities offer it; confirm your utility's current terms.

Massachusetts introduced a first-ever residential heat pump rate with lower winter delivery charges. Mass.gov says households that received a Mass Save heat pump rebate since 2019 were auto-enrolled as of Nov 1, 2025 unless they opt out, and others can contact their utility. Mass.gov estimated about $540 savings for eligible households.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Households heating with air-source or ground-source heat pumps. Savings depend on the utility.

Run by

Eversource, National Grid, Unitil via DPU

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

electric

Heads up: The Mass.gov page we read still mixes last winter's wording and old oil-price figures (it showed $3.10/gal), so we treat the $540 figure as last winter's estimate. Confirm with your utility.

Go to the official page

Sources: Mass.gov: Massachusetts Household Heating Costs
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Municipal electric utility customers (not served by Mass Save)

InfoMassachusettsGood to knowRenter rules not stated

Status: Mass.gov's rebate guide points these customers elsewhere.

Mass Save serves customers of the investor-owned utilities. Mass.gov's energy rebates guide says municipal utility customers should check NextZero or Energy New England for their utility's programs. Ask your light plant what it offers for heat pumps and weatherization.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Customers of municipal light plants (for example in towns that run their own electric utility).

Run by

Your town's municipal light plant

Heads up: We have not catalogued individual municipal programs.

Go to the official page

Sources: Mass.gov: Massachusetts Energy Rebates & Incentives guide
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP)

Open nowConnecticutHeating-bill helpRenter rules not stated

Status: Open since Sep 1, 2026. Last day to apply: May 31, 2027 (mail must be postmarked by then).

Pays $355 to $705 for the 2026-27 season depending on household size, income and heating source, usually paid directly to your utility or fuel vendor. Households using oil, kerosene or propane may be eligible for additional deliveries. Recipients may also qualify for payment-matching plans, shut-off protection and heating-equipment repair or replacement.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Connecticut resident AND either receives SNAP, TFA, SSI, qualifying means-tested veterans' benefits or other qualifying DSS benefits, OR has annual income at or below 60% of state median: 1 person $48,714; 2 $63,703; 3 $78,692; 4 $93,681; 5 $108,669; 6 $123,658; 7 $126,469; 8 $129,279. Apply online, by phone, email, mail or in person at your community action agency. Per the state, you get a letter within 45 days.

Run by

CT Dept. of Social Services; local community action agencies

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, electric

• 2026-09-01: Applications opened
• 2027-05-31: Last day to apply

Heads up: CEAP is annual: you must apply every year. Per the state page, deliverable-fuel households that apply after the authorization deadline may still submit paid invoices for fuel bought between Nov 2 and Apr 1 for review.

Go to the official page

Sources: CT: CEAP, Heating Help in CT · CT DSS: Who is eligible · CT: Apply online
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Energize CT air-source heat pump rebates (2026)

Open nowConnecticutHeat pump & equipment rebatesRenter rules not stated

Status: 2026 incentives run Jan 1 to Dec 31, 2026.

$250 per ton (up to $2,500 combined) when replacing a heat pump, adding to an unconditioned space, or installing for cooling/without integrated controls. Replacing natural gas, oil, propane or electric resistance as the primary heat falls under the Residential Energy Optimization Incentive (the page's FAQ cites $1,000 per ton). Enhanced incentives up to $1,500 per ton for installs on or after Apr 1, 2026 when replacing electric baseboard or for households above 60% of state median income and below 80% of area median income. Smart-E loan from 1.99% through Dec 31, 2026 (pre-verification required).

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Residential electric customers of Eversource or UI; contractor must be in the Energize CT Heat Pump Installer Network; equipment on the Qualified Product List. Projects are randomly inspected; skipping an inspection forfeits the rebate. Pre-verify online (optional, but required for the Smart-E offer); pre-verifications expire after 60 days or at year end.

Run by

Energize CT (Eversource and UI customers)

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, electric

• 2026-12-31: Incentive year ends; Smart-E 1.99% offer ends

Heads up: Instant point-of-sale incentives may also exist through the New England Heat Pump Accelerator (NEHPA), which Energize CT says it does not administer.

Go to the official page

Sources: Energize CT: Residential Air Source Heat Pump
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Generation Power CT (formerly Operation Fuel) hardship grants

Opens soonConnecticutEmergency / crisis helpRenter rules not stated

Status: Next application window: Dec 1 to 15, 2026 (Sep 1-15 window has closed). Then Mar 1 to 15, 2027.

Deliverable-fuel assistance grants of up to $500, once per 12 months, for households at or below 75% of state median income. Decision letters for the December cycle are emailed no later than Feb 12, 2027.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Up to 75% of state median income by household size, gross-income proof required. The program says grants are not an entitlement to everyone inside the income guidelines.

Run by

Generation Power CT

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, kerosene

• 2026-12-01: Cycle 2 window opens (closes Dec 15)
• 2027-03-01: Cycle 3 window opens (closes Mar 15)

Go to the official page

Sources: Generation Power CT: Fuel Assistance
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Energize CT insulation incentive

Year-roundConnecticutInsulation & weatherizationRenter rules not stated

Status: Ongoing; insulation must be recommended during a Home Energy Solutions visit.

Up to $2.00 per square foot (or 75% of cost, whichever is less, up to $10,000) for professionally installed insulation; $0.25 per square foot for self-installed work (inspection required). Up to $2.50 per sq ft (up to $15,000) for income-qualified customers and those in Environmental Justice Communities.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Residential customers of Eversource, UI, CNG and SCG; approved contractor required for the higher rate.

Run by

Energize CT

Go to the official page

Sources: Energize CT: Residential Insulation
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Home Energy Solutions (HES) and no-cost HES-Income Eligible

Year-roundConnecticutInsulation & weatherizationRenters: landlord sign-off needed

Status: Ongoing; the program may have a waiting list because of demand.

Standard Home Energy Solutions assessment has a $40 copay (from Apr 1, 2026). HES-Income Eligible is a no-cost in-home assessment and may cover up to 100% of approved insulation. Households above 60% of state median and below 80% of area median may get a no-cost assessment with enhanced incentives (e.g. up to $122,000 for a family of four, per Eversource).

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

HES-IE: combined gross income below 60% of state median, or utility hardship status; home must not have had HES in the last six years. Renters need the landlord's signature on the Landlord Authorization. Programs run through your utility's application form.

Run by

Energize CT; Eversource, UI, CNG, SCG

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, gas, propane, electric

Go to the official page

Sources: Energize CT: Income-Eligible options · Energize CT: Home Energy Solutions · Eversource CT: Home Energy Solutions
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Clean Heat Rhode Island (heat pump incentive)

Open nowRhode IslandHeat pump & equipment rebatesRenter rules not stated

Status: Funding now comes from RGGI after ARPA money was fully allocated in 2026, per the state; confirm availability before you buy.

60% of eligible air-source heat pump system and installation cost, capped at $11,500. Lifetime cap per property $18,000 (including up to $2,500 for heat pump water heaters). Can be combined with Rhode Island Energy rebates.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Households under 150% of state median income that heat with oil, propane or natural gas, have completed weatherization, use an installer in the Clean Heat RI network, and choose equipment on the RI NEEP list (R-410A equipment ineligible since Jan 1, 2026). Panel/service upgrades, taxes and unrelated work are not covered.

Run by

RI Office of Energy Resources program

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas

Go to the official page

Sources: Clean Heat RI: Incentives · RI OER: Clean Heat RI · Rhode Island Energy: electric heating and cooling
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

LIHEAP (heating assistance)

Open nowRhode IslandHeating-bill helpRenters can apply

Status: RI DHS says the FFY2027 application period opened Oct 1, 2026. A local agency (Comprehensive Community Action, Cranston) lists Apr 15, 2027 as the last day to apply; confirm the date with your agency.

Heating assistance is a grant to help meet heating costs, paid to a fuel vendor or utility, or in a few cases to the applicant. Crisis assistance helps with a shut-off caused by an unpaid regulated energy bill, inability to pay for deliverable fuel, or an unrepairable heating-system failure. You can apply online or through the Community Action Agency serving your area; new applicants should apply in person per DHS.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

At or below 60% of Rhode Island median income (limits set each program year; see DHS guidelines). You do not need to be on public assistance or have an unpaid heating bill. Renters and owners can apply.

Run by

RI Dept. of Human Services; applications at local Community Action Program (CAP) agencies

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, gas, propane, electric

• 2026-10-01: FFY2027 applications opened (RI DHS)
• 2027-04-15: Last day to apply, per Comprehensive Community Action (one agency's page)

Heads up: RI DHS's separate eligibility page still said, when we read it, that last season closed Apr 15, 2026 and the program was 'expected to reopen' Oct 1, so DHS pages are not fully in sync. We list no dollar income limits here; use the DHS guidelines link.

Go to the official page

Sources: RI DHS: LIHEAP (FFY2027 opens Oct 1) · RI DHS: LIHEAP Eligibility & How To Apply · Comprehensive Community Action (CCAP)
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Rhode Island Energy heat pump rebates

Open nowRhode IslandHeat pump & equipment rebatesRenter rules not stated

Status: 2026 incentives.

Standard rebate up to $625 per ton for switching from natural gas, oil or propane. Enhanced $1,500 per ton for electric baseboard customers. RI Energy's 2026 handout also lists a New England Heat Pump Accelerator distributor incentive of $650 per unit that your contractor applies.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Equipment must meet ENERGY STAR 6.1 Cold Climate criteria on the RI Energy/NEEP Qualified List. The standard rebate can be installed by any Rhode Island refrigeration-licensed contractor; the enhanced rebate requires a RI Energy participating contractor. Zero-interest financing is mentioned on the RI Energy page.

Run by

Rhode Island Energy

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, electric

Go to the official page

Sources: Rhode Island Energy: electric heating and cooling · RI Energy 2026 ASHP handout (PDF)
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Fuel Assistance Program (NH LIHEAP)

Open nowNew HampshireHeating-bill helpRenters can apply

Status: Apply now with your county Community Action Agency (applications accepted until Apr 30, 2027). Payments are expected from Dec 1.

A grant that does not have to be paid back. NH DOE lists benefits up to $2,500 (average about $1,002) depending on income and energy costs; benefits do not count as income for other assistance. It can also help with emergency fuel delivery or shut-off delays.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Household income up to 60% of state median (NHPR: about $49,000 for one person, nearly $94,000 for a family of four). New Hampshire residence; owners and renters. Local agencies publish the exact guidelines.

Run by

NH Dept. of Energy; local Community Action Agencies

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, electric, wood/pellets

• 2026-12-01: Benefits expected to start flowing
• 2027-04-30: Application deadline (per CAPHR)

Heads up: If you are out of fuel or nearly out before Dec 1, NHPR reports agencies point people to their town or city welfare office for immediate help. Federal FY27 LIHEAP funds were released Oct 9, 2026, but NH benefit amounts can still change; NH DOE's two page versions we saw listed different benefit ranges, so confirm with your agency.

Go to the official page

Sources: NH Dept. of Energy: Fuel Assistance Program · NHPR, Oct 12, 2026 · CAPHR: Fuel Assistance
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

NHSaves air-source heat pump rebates (2026)

Open nowNew HampshireHeat pump & equipment rebatesRenter rules not stated

Status: Install by the end of 2026 and postmark the rebate form by Jan 30, 2027, while funds last.

$250 per ton standard (limit 5 tons per account). Replacing working permanent electric-resistance heat can earn up to $1,750 per ton more ($2,000 total) for installs on or after Mar 23, 2026 (pre-verification required at NHSaves.com/GetVerified). A Wi-Fi thermostat rebate is also listed.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Residential electric customer of a participating NH utility; equipment meets the NHSaves qualified list; the pages say rebates are available for a limited time while funds last and can change at any time.

Run by

NHSaves (Eversource, Liberty, Unitil)

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, electric

• 2026-12-31: Install deadline (the NHSaves web page says Dec 30; the form says Dec 31)
• 2027-01-30: Rebate form postmark deadline

Go to the official page

Sources: NHSaves: Heat Pumps · NHSaves 2026 rebate form (PDF)
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Eversource NH Home Energy Performance (income-based offers up to 100% of state median)

Year-roundNew HampshireInsulation & weatherizationRenter rules not stated

Status: Ongoing.

Households at or below 100% of state median income can qualify for enhanced offers, including no-cost health and safety checks, insulation and air sealing, and efficient equipment. Eversource lists up to $6,000 in incentives and 0% home energy improvement loans up to $15,000 for eligible work.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Eversource lists income ceilings (annual): 1 person under $81,189; 2 $106,171; 3 $131,152; 4 $156,133; 5 $181,115; 6 $206,096. You can also apply without income verification for standard offers.

Run by

Eversource / NHSaves

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, gas, propane, electric

Heads up: Eversource customers; other NH utilities run their own NHSaves programs.

Go to the official page

Sources: Eversource: NH Home Energy Performance
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Home Energy Assistance (no-cost weatherization) and Electric Assistance Program

Year-roundNew HampshireInsulation & weatherizationRenters can apply

Status: Ongoing. Electric Assistance applications are accepted year-round (CAPHR).

Covers 100% of the cost to weatherize income-eligible homes and replace inefficient equipment, for homeowners and renters. The Electric Assistance Program gives qualifying customers discounts on monthly electric and gas bills.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Based on household income and number of members; customers who qualify for fuel assistance, electric assistance or subsidized housing are eligible for the utility program (1-to-4 family homes, per Eversource).

Run by

NHSaves utilities via county Community Action Agencies

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, gas, propane, electric

Go to the official page

Sources: NHSaves: Income-Eligible Energy Assistance · Eversource NH: Income-Eligible Energy Efficiency
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Efficiency Vermont heat pumps, wood and pellet heating

Open nowVermontHeat pump & equipment rebatesWritten for homeowners

Status: 2026 offers (ductless effective Jan 1, 2026).

Ductless heat pumps: $375 (up to 2 tons) or $475 (over 2 tons) instant discount at participating distributors. Ducted heat pumps: $1,200 to $2,200 depending on size. Income bonus of $200 to $2,200 depending on utility and income (Green Mountain Power low-income customers $2,200; its own page lists $2,000 per condenser for households at or below 80% of area median income). Efficiency Vermont's 2026 announcement also lists $400 for wood or pellet stoves, $6,000 for central wood heating systems and $600 for heat pump water heaters.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

New equipment on the Qualifying Products List, installed in Vermont, bought through participating distributors. Rental property owners and Burlington Electric customers are not eligible for the income bonus at this time. Fossil-fuel backup is generally kept for ducted systems.

Run by

Efficiency Vermont with your electric utility

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, electric, wood/pellets

Go to the official page

Sources: Efficiency Vermont: Ductless Heat Pumps · Efficiency Vermont: Ducted Heat Pumps · Efficiency Vermont: 2026 rebates announcement · Green Mountain Power: heat pumps
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Crisis Fuel Assistance and furnace repair/replacement

Opens soonVermontEmergency / crisis helpRenters can apply

Status: Opens the last Monday in November (Nov 30, 2026 on the calendar) for bulk fuels; weekend line starts the last Saturday in November.

Help if you are in a heating crisis (for example out of fuel with no money to buy more). Bulk fuels (oil, kerosene, propane, wood, pellets, coal): apply from the last Monday in November to the second Friday in April. Metered fuels (natural gas, electric): to the last regular working day in April. Weekends and holidays: 1-800-479-6151 for households with someone elderly, disabled or a child under 6. A separate furnace repair/replacement program serves no-heat emergencies.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Monthly income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, and a heating crisis. Apply in person at your local Community Action Agency (call first).

Run by

VT DCF via local Community Action Agencies

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, electric, wood/pellets

• 2026-11-30: Crisis fuel opens for bulk fuels (last Monday in November)

Go to the official page

Sources: VT DCF: Crisis Fuel Assistance
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Seasonal Fuel Assistance (VT LIHEAP)

Year-roundVermontHeating-bill helpRenters can apply

Status: Vermont processes heating-assistance applications year-round (LIHEAP Clearinghouse). Check DCF for this season's benefit amount.

A portion of heating costs paid to your fuel supplier, or by EBT for wood/pellets or heat included in rent.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level, per DCF's fuel income guidelines page.

Run by

VT Dept. for Children and Families (DCF), Economic Services Division

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, electric, wood/pellets

Heads up: We could not confirm the 2026-27 benefit amount on a primary page, so none is listed. See DCF.

Go to the official page

Sources: VT DCF: Fuel Assistance · VT DCF: Income guidelines · LIHEAP Clearinghouse: program dates
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Weatherization Assistance Program (free)

Year-roundVermontInsulation & weatherizationRenters: landlord sign-off needed

Status: Ongoing; apply to the agency that serves your town.

Free weatherization for eligible households. Single-family homeowners living in their homes pay nothing; SEVCA notes landlords of rented single-unit homes cover required health and safety upgrades.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Home has not received free weatherization in 15 years AND one of: household income within limits, active Seasonal Fuel Assistance household, someone receives SSI, or an adult received Reach Up in the past 12 months. SEVCA's July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027 limits: 1 person $62,400; 2 $71,400; 3 $80,300; 4 $89,200; 5 $96,350; 6 $103,500. Renters need the owner's permission.

Run by

VT DCF Office of Economic Opportunity via local Community Action Agencies

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, electric, wood/pellets

Go to the official page

Sources: VT DCF: Weatherization Assistance Program · SEVCA: WX for Homeowners
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Efficiency Maine heat pump rebates

Open nowMaineHeat pump & equipment rebatesWritten for homeowners

Status: Ongoing. Check the 'new construction' rule: from Jan 1, 2027 completed new-construction projects must have no furnace or boiler.

Any income: $1,000 per eligible outdoor unit up to $3,000 lifetime per housing unit. Moderate income: $2,000 per unit up to $6,000. Low income: $3,000 per unit up to $9,000. Efficiency Maine also offers home energy loans for income-eligible homeowners.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Heat pumps must be the primary heating system, sized for at least 80% of the peak heating load (100% with supplemental heat). Low income: someone in the household gets MaineCare, HEAP, SNAP or TANF. Moderate income: adjusted gross income up to $70,000 (single) or $100,000 (joint). Installed by an Efficiency Maine Residential Registered Vendor; claim within 6 months. Income-based rebates require the home to be the owner's principal residence.

Run by

Efficiency Maine

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, kerosene, electric

Heads up: Efficiency Maine's rebates are written for homeowners; renters should ask their landlord to apply.

Go to the official page

Sources: Efficiency Maine: Residential Heat Pump Rebates · Maine DOER: Winter Heating Guide 2026-2027 (PDF)
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Efficiency Maine insulation and air-sealing rebates

Open nowMaineInsulation & weatherizationWritten for homeowners

Status: Current schedule (page title: up to $8,600).

Per zone: large attic/wall/basement (500+ sq ft) $4,000 low income, $3,000 moderate, $2,000 any income; small (250-499 sq ft) $2,000 / $1,500 / $1,000. Mobile-home underbelly $5,000 / $4,000 / $3,000. Air sealing $50 to $300 by area and income. Lifetime limit up to $8,600 for most homes ($5,600 for mobile homes).

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Homeowner; installed by an Efficiency Maine Residential Registered Vendor; insulated space heated all season; claim within 6 months. Low/moderate-income rebates require verification (HEAP, SNAP, TANF or MaineCare; or AGI up to $70,000 single / $100,000 joint) and owner-occupancy.

Run by

Efficiency Maine

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, electric

Go to the official page

Sources: Efficiency Maine: Insulation rebates
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

Open nowMaineHeating-bill helpRenters can apply

Status: Open since Aug 3, 2026; runs until funds are exhausted or May 29, 2027. Apply early.

Helps homeowners and renters pay heating costs, including emergency fuel delivery. MaineHousing used about $4 million of leftover funds to give early credits to about 4,400 households that applied early and include adults over 60, children age 6 or under, or people with disabilities (Press Herald, Oct 8/12, 2026). About $41 million in federal HEAP funding (about $27 million for fuel) was expected to arrive late October. The average award was set this summer at about $700, so it buys less oil at $6/gallon.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Income limits depend on household size (see MaineHousing's page). Bring recent energy bills and your fuel type. If you are over the limit you may be able to deduct some medical expenses.

Run by

MaineHousing; local community action agencies and ProsperityME

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas, kerosene, wood/pellets, electric

• 2026-08-03: Applications opened
• 2027-05-29: Applications end or funds exhausted

Heads up: Local agencies report heavy demand and delays (see the CHIP entry for one example), so apply early and online if you can. Maine 211 can also help.

Go to the official page

Sources: MaineHousing: HEAP · Press Herald, Oct 8, 2026
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP)

Opens soonMaineEmergency / crisis helpRenters can apply

Status: Opens Nov 1, 2026 and runs through Apr 30, 2027.

Crisis help if you have an extremely low supply of heating fuel. Start by filling out a HEAP application, then contact your local community action agency about crisis eligibility.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Based on HEAP eligibility plus an emergency supply situation; the agency decides.

Run by

MaineHousing; local community action agencies

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, kerosene

• 2026-11-01: ECIP season opens
• 2027-04-30: ECIP season ends

Go to the official page

Sources: MaineHousing: HEAP and ECIP
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Central Heating Improvement Program (CHIP)

Check with agencyMaineInsulation & weatherizationRenters: landlord sign-off needed

Status: Demand is high: WAGM reported 155 Aroostook households waiting on repairs on Oct 14, 2026, with the local agency between contracts and expecting new funding within about a week.

Heating system repair and replacement for low-income households; priority goes to households with no heat. Households may owe a co-payment. Limited benefits up to $600 may be available for rental properties occupied by HEAP-eligible tenants.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Household is HEAP-eligible and the home is in good structural condition.

Run by

MaineHousing via community action agencies

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

oil, propane, gas

Go to the official page

Sources: MaineHousing: CHIP · WAGM, Oct 14, 2026
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Community firewood banks

Check with agencyMaineCommunity help (wood banks, charities)Renters can apply

Status: Demand is up and some report supply running out early (Lake Region expects to run out by about Dec 1).

Wood banks operate like food pantries: free or low-cost firewood for elderly, disabled and low-income households. The Sun Journal (Oct 13, 2026) names the Maine Wood Bank Network (Freeport), Bethel Wood Bank, Midcoast Firewood Bank (Topsham; two cords to any household that needs it), Kennebec Wood Bank, Webster Wood Bank (Salem Township) and Lake Region Woodbank (Bridgton).

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Varies by bank. Contact the one nearest you. We did not verify each bank's current rules.

Run by

Volunteer wood banks (Maine Wood Bank Network, Midcoast, Bethel, Lake Region and others)

Heating fuels it covers or applies to

wood/pellets

Heads up: Wood stoves need inspected chimneys and safe operation, as the wood banks themselves remind households.

Go to the official page

Sources: Sun Journal, Oct 13, 2026
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Federal LIHEAP funding for FY2027 has been released

InfoRegional / federalGood to knowRenters can apply

Status: ACF released $3.63 billion on Oct 9, 2026, earlier than usual.

ACF released 90% of FY27 block-grant funds to states, territories and tribes on Oct 9, 2026 under the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2027. States still decide benefit levels and open dates, and Maine's governor has called the funding level insufficient this winter.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Not applicable; state programs above decide eligibility.

Run by

HHS Administration for Children and Families

Go to the official page

Sources: ACF: First Block Grant Funding Release FFY 2027 · NPGA, Oct 15, 2026
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline and EnergyHelp.us

InfoRegional / federalGood to knowRenters can apply

Status: Weekdays 9:00 am to 7:00 pm Eastern.

Call 1-866-674-6327 or visit energyhelp.us to find where and how to apply for LIHEAP in your area. ACF says LIHEAP can help with heating bills, shut-off prevention, reconnection, weatherization and repair or replacement of heating equipment.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Not applicable; a referral service.

Run by

HHS Administration for Children and Families

Go to the official page

Sources: ACF: LIHEAP
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

New England Heat Pump Accelerator (NEHPA) point-of-sale incentives

InfoRegional / federalHeat pump & equipment rebatesRenter rules not stated

Status: Runs through December 2029 per RI OER.

A state-led regional program funded by an EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. It supports pass-through incentives for distributors and contractors, training and community grants in CT, ME, MA, NH and RI. Ask your installer whether an instant discount applies; Energize CT notes it is not administered by the Energize CT sponsors and RI Energy's handout lists a $650-per-unit distributor incentive in Rhode Island.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Varies by state; ask your contractor.

Run by

State energy offices (CT, ME, MA, NH, RI), EPA-funded

Go to the official page

Sources: RI OER: New England Heat Pump Accelerator
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)

Federal home-energy tax credits (25C and 25D) ended Dec 31, 2025

EndedRegional / federalGood to knowRenters can apply

Status: No federal heat pump credit for 2026 installs.

Under Public Law 119-21 the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (25C) is not allowed for property placed in service after Dec 31, 2025, and the Residential Clean Energy Credit (25D) is not allowed for expenditures after Dec 31, 2025. State, utility and program rebates are now the main incentives.

Who qualifies (as the program states it)

Not applicable. For 2025 purchases, ask a tax professional.

Run by

IRS

Heads up: This site does not give tax advice.

Go to the official page

Sources: IRS: FAQs on 25C, 25D, etc. under Public Law 119-21 · IRS: Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit
Last verified: Oct 17, 2026 (ET)