Massachusetts RAFT Emergency Guide and FAQ

If you are facing an eviction, a housing crisis, or losing your home in Massachusetts, the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program provides short-term financial help to keep you stably housed.

What Does RAFT Cover?

Eligible households can receive up to $7,000 within a rolling 12-month period to help cover critical housing costs:

* Rental Arrears: Overdue rent (A Notice to Quit or court eviction summons is required).

* Utility Arrears: Past-due gas, electric, or oil bills tied to maintaining your home.

* Move-In Costs: Security deposits, first month, or last month's rent for securing a new apartment.

* Mortgage Arrears: Assistance for eligible homeowners at risk of foreclosure.

RAFT Program Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for emergency RAFT funds in Massachusetts, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Housing Crisis: You must demonstrate an imminent risk of homelessness or housing instability (such as receiving a Notice to Quit, facing overcrowding/doubling up, or dealing with a health and safety emergency).

2. Income Limits: Your gross household income must generally be at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your region (though exceptions up to 60% AMI may apply for situations like fleeing domestic violence).

3. Residency: You must currently rent or own a primary residence in Massachusetts. Note: Federal immigration status does not impact eligibility for most RAFT funds.

Documents Needed to Apply

Speed up your application by having these ready before you apply through the Massachusetts Housing Help Hub:

* Photo ID or birth certificate for the head of household.

* Proof of housing (such as a signed lease, tenancy-at-will agreement, or mortgage statement).

* Proof of household income (recent pay stubs, benefit statements, etc.).

* Crisis documentation (such as a Notice to Quit, court summons, or utility shut-off notice).

👉 [Apply Online Now via the Official Massachusetts Housing Help Hub] (https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-raft-emergency-help-for-housing-costs)

Frequently Asked Questions About RAFT in Massachusetts

Can I get RAFT if I don't have an eviction notice yet?

While a Notice to Quit or court summons is strictly required if you are applying for back-rent (rental arrears), you can qualify under other housing crises without one—such as severe overcrowding ("doubling up"), health and safety hazards in the unit, or a natural disaster like a fire or flood.

Does immigration status affect RAFT eligibility?

No. Federal immigration status has no impact on eligibility for the majority of state-funded RAFT assistance.

How long does the RAFT application take to process?

Processing times vary depending on your Regional Administering Agency (RAA) and their current backlog. Because emergency cases are prioritized, it is vital to submit all required documents—like your Notice to Quit and income proof—all at once to avoid delays.

Can landlords apply for RAFT on behalf of tenants?

Yes. Landlords can initiate a RAFT application through the Housing Help Hub if their tenant has unpaid rent, but the tenant must still participate and provide their household and income information to complete it.

Can I receive RAFT more than once?

Yes. You can access RAFT multiple times within a 12-month period, provided that your total cumulative assistance does not exceed the $7,000 cap.