Massachusetts benefits and support programs

Massachusetts SUN Bucks Program

Run by Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Mass.gov)

When to apply

No fixed closing date when we checked.

Official page (mass.gov)Checked October 17, 2026

SNAP

Run by Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Mass.gov)

Documents to prepare

• If they apply: identity (driver's license, state ID, birth certificate or similar; often checked by matching the Social Security number), Social Security number if any, proof of Massachusetts residency (license or state ID, rent receipt, lease or utility bill), income and hours worked (pay stubs or employer letter), other income (benefit or award letter, check or payment record), documents about non-citizen status. Housing, utility and dependent care costs are optional but may raise benefits

Official page (mass.gov)Checked October 17, 2026

RAFT - Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (emergency help for rent, eviction and housing costs)

Run by Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Mass.gov)

Who it is for

Massachusetts households at risk of homelessness or losing housing, income less than 50% of the city/town Area Median Income (less than 60% AMI if at risk of domestic violence)

Documents to prepare

• ID for the head of household (for example a state driver's license, birth certificate or passport); proof of current housing (lease or tenancy agreement); proof of the housing crisis (for example a Notice to Quit, eviction notice, proof of mortgage arrears or a utility shutoff notice); income verification (automatic if possible, otherwise upload)

Official page (mass.gov)Checked October 18, 2026

HEAP - Home Energy Assistance Program

Run by Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Mass.gov)

Documents to prepare

• Photo identification for the head of household or the main applicant (for example a driver's license)
• A list of all household members
• Heating bill information (the name of the heating company and your account number)
• Housing information (a current lease or a mortgage statement)
• Proof of income for the 30 days before the application date (for example wages, pension)

Official page (mass.gov)Checked October 21, 2026

Boston Medical Center Health System Patient Financial Assistance (BMC South)

Who it is for

Eligible uninsured and underinsured Massachusetts residents receiving medically necessary care at Boston Medical Center, Boston Medical Center Brighton and Boston Medical Center South; Medical Hardship may be available to Massachusetts residents at any income level.

Official page (bmchealthsystem.org)Checked October 26, 2026

Economic assistance (TAFDC and EAEDC)

Run by Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Mass.gov)

Documents to prepare

• Identity and Social Security number (often checked through the Social Security number match)
• Proof of Massachusetts residency: rent receipt, lease, utility bill, deed or mortgage statement
• Income and hours worked: pay stubs or an employer letter
• Other income (workers' compensation, veterans' benefits, child support, alimony): a benefit or award letter, a check, or a record of payment
• Non-citizen status: a green card, Employment Authorization Card or other immigration documents
• Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children: household information (foster care placements, guardianship or custody, who you live with, pregnancy) and relationships (birth certificate, adoption papers, marriage certificate)
• Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children: proof of a disability or health problem (a statement from a medical provider, or taking part in the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission program)

Official page (mass.gov)Checked October 21, 2026

Child Care Financial Assistance (CCFA)

Run by Commonwealth of Massachusetts (Mass.gov)

Documents to prepare

• Proof of the parent's identity, Massachusetts residency and all gross household income. More documents may be requested when funding is available. Parents do not have to prove their own citizenship status

Official page (mass.gov)Checked October 18, 2026

MassLINKS (Massachusetts statewide adult education virtual academy: basic skills, HiSET and GED preparation)

When to apply

No fixed closing date when we checked.

Official page (doe.mass.edu)Checked October 24, 2026

MassReconnect / free community college (DHE)

Run by Massachusetts Department of Higher Education

Who it is for

Massachusetts residents enrolled at a public community college.

Official page (mass.edu)Checked October 18, 2026

MassAbility Career Services (Vocational Rehabilitation)

Who it is for

Massachusetts residents who are eligible to work in the United States, have a physical or mental disability that prevents them from finding employment, and would benefit from receiving Career Services.

Official page (mass.gov)Checked October 26, 2026

Citizenship for New Americans Program (CNAP)

Who it is for

Lawful permanent residents of Massachusetts (i.e. green card holders) within 3 years of eligibility to become U.S. citizens.

Official page (mass.gov)Checked October 26, 2026

MBTA Income-Eligible Reduced Fare

Run by Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA)

Documents to prepare

• Government-issued ID; proof you are enrolled in state assistance (online: upload a welcome letter or an account screenshot; in person: an enrollment or benefits letter dated within the last 3 months); MASSGrant users must upload manually; photo ID is required in person

Official page (mbta.com)Checked October 18, 2026

FEMA Individual Assistance (MEMA Disaster Recovery Programs)

Who it is for

People affected by a disaster under a federal Major Disaster Declaration that includes Individual Assistance; the Individuals and Households Program serves people who are uninsured or under-insured. No specific disaster or county is named.

Official page (mass.gov)Checked October 26, 2026