South Shore Community Action Council Inc. is accepting applications for fuel assistance, a program that helps with fuel deliveries and utility shutoffs. Anyone who did not receive an application in the mail and feels they may qualify is encouraged to apply.

People under the age of 60 may fill out applications by scheduling an appointment with Susan Von Steiger at the Oak Bluffs Council on Aging at 508-693-4509. Senior citizens may apply at intake sites listed below. Phone calls to the main office in Plymouth via a live operator are accepted between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. at 508-746-6707 or toll free at 877-FUEL-AID. There is also a 24-hour voice response system.

New applicants must bring proof of income for the past 30 days for all household members over 18, picture identification and proof of street address. Households who have used the same primary heat source for at least 12 months should bring copies of their heating bills for the 12 months prior to apply for a potentially higher fuel assistance benefit level.

All income and other information must be brought into the office the day you apply in order to receive emergency assistance.

Eligibility is based on gross income and household size. The maximum allowable income guidelines are: family of one, $31,271; family of two, $40,893; family of three, $50,515; family of four, $60,137; family of five, $69,759.

Heating season benefit levels have been established ranging from $260 to $750 for non-subsidized residents and $180 to $525 for some subsidized housing residents. Eligibility for fuel assistance also provides 12 months of discounts on electric, natural gas and telephone bills. Fuel assistance eligibility may also provide free weatherization and heating system repair. Applications will be taken through April 30, 2013.