We understand that certain life circumstances can make it difficult to pay your bill. That’s why NSTAR has special programs and works closely with state and federal agencies to help those customers who need assistance.
Discount Rate (online application)
If you currently receive certain government means-tested benefits,
or qualify for fuel assistance, you might be eligible for our
Discount Rate.
Since December 2004 NSTAR is required to make customer information available to the Mass. Department of Transitional Assistance to help determine and enroll Discount Rate customers. Customers have the option to exclude their information from this list.
NSTAR Electric customers who receive NSTAR's Discount Rate may also be eligible for our Energy Efficiency Program for Lower Income Customers. More information is detailed in our Electric Energy Efficiency Programs.
Fuel Assistance Program
If your gross income is below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty
Income Guidelines, you may qualify for assistance
toward your utility bills. Most Fuel Assistance clients also
qualify for discounts on their gas, electric, telephone and water
bills. To apply, contact the
Community Action Program
nearest you.
Forgiveness Program
If you receive certain means-tested government benefits, or
qualify for Fuel Assistance, and meet some other criteria, you
may be eligible to have portions of your bill's overdue balance
forgiven.
Coordinated through your local Community Action Agency, participants in the program will also have the opportunity to be placed on an NSTAR Payment Plan, and take part in valuable budget counseling. Plus, you'll learn more about our Energy Efficiency Programs for lower-income customers.
For more information, contact a Community Action Program near you.
Good Neighbor Energy Fund
Administered by the Salvation Army, the fund helps customers pay
their energy bill, especially those in financial crisis who may not
qualify for other means of fuel assistance. The Good Neighbor
Energy Fund is funded by utilities and utility customers across
Massachusetts including NSTAR and its customers. If you would
like to know how to apply for this program, please call the
Salvation Army at 800-334-3047 or visit the
Fund's web site.
65 Plus and Double Notice Protection
This service keeps those households with all members 65 years of age
or older from receiving a final notice on their electric bill, with
an option to allow NSTAR to notify a relative or friend about
overdue bills.
Payment Plans
NSTAR can work with you to spread out payments on overdue portions
of your bill. If you have a past due balance, you can
setup a Payment Plan
online.
