The White House has announced $13.5 billion in energy assistance, including $4.5 billion to help Massachusetts residents and other Americans pay higher heating bills this winter. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, natural gas prices could rise by as much as 28 percent this winter, while electricity, oil, and propane prices are expected to increase by 10, 27, and 5 percent respectively. If you're struggling to keep up with your energy bills this winter, here's what you need to know about the available assistance.

Who Is Eligible?

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally-funded program that provides financial assistance to low-income households for home heating and cooling costs. According to the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), LIHEAP assistance is available to households with incomes at or below 60 percent of the state median income level. For example, a family of four with an annual income of $60,000 or less would be eligible for assistance.

How To Apply

To apply for LIHEAP assistance in Massachusetts, you can either call the statewide toll-free number at 1-800-632-8175 or visit your local community action agency. A list of community action agencies can be found on the DHCD website.

What Else Can I Do To Lower My Energy Bills?

In addition to applying for LIHEAP assistance, there are several other things you can do to lower your energy bills this winter. The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) recommends taking the following steps:

• Get a home energy assessment: A professional will come to your home and evaluate your energy use. They'll provide you with a report that includes recommendations for cost-effective ways to improve your home's energy efficiency. You may even be eligible for rebates and incentives to help offset the cost of upgrading your home's insulation, heating system, or windows. To schedule a free home energy assessment, call MassSave at 1-866-527-7283 or visit their website.

• Install a smart thermostat: Smart thermostats can save you money by automatically adjusting your home's temperature when you're not there. In fact, according to DOER, you could save up to 10 percent on your heating costs each year by installing a smart thermostat. You can purchase a smart thermostat from most major retailers or have one installed by a professional through MassSave.

• Seal air leaks: Air leaks around doors and windows can cause your heating bills to skyrocket in the wintertime. To prevent heat loss and save money on your energy bills, seal any air leaks around doors and windows with weatherstripping or caulking. You can also install draft guards at the bottom of doors leading outside.

• Educate yourself about "peak pricing": Many utility companies now offer "peak pricing" programs that allow customers to save money by using less electricity during periods of high demand—usually weekday afternoons during the summer and early evenings during the winter. If you're enrolled in a peak pricing program, you'll receive lower rates for electricity used during off-peak hours in exchange for higher rates during peak hours. Contact your utility company to see if they offer peak pricing programs and learn how you can sign up."

Winter is fast approaching and with it comes higher energy bills. If you're struggling to keep up with your payments, don't worry—you're not alone. The White House has announced $13 billion in energy assistance, including $4 billion specifically for Massachusetts residents who are struggling to pay their heating bills this winter season. In addition to federal assistance, there are also several state programs available that can help you lower your energy costs this winter season."

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