RAFT Program in Massachusetts: Applications and Owner Support

Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) is a Massachusetts program offering short-term help with eligible housing costs. The administering agency determines eligibility and awards. Start with the state’s current application guidance; submitting an application does not guarantee funding or a processing date.

Official application guidance checked October 19, 2026. Program rules can change; confirm current requirements with the administering agency.

What does Massachusetts RAFT cover?

The state’s RAFT application page lists up to $7,000 per 12-month period for eligible housing emergencies, including rent, utilities, moving costs and mortgage payments. This is a program maximum, not an award promised to every applicant. Ask the agency which requested costs qualify; do not assume that furniture or any other purchase is reimbursable.

Who may qualify?

The state describes eligibility based on a housing emergency and household income. Its current guidance lists income below 50% of the city or town’s Area Median Income (AMI), or below 60% AMI when the household is at risk of domestic violence. Use the state’s eligibility guidance and ask the regional agency about your circumstances. Green Ocean does not decide eligibility.

How tenants and landlords apply

1. Start with official instructions. Tenants should review the state application guide. Owners and authorized agents should review how landlords can apply for RAFT. Those pages link to the Housing Help Hub.
2. Coordinate both applications. The state says either the tenant or landlord can start. Corresponding applications must be matched before agency review. The landlord guide says both parties need to submit within 21 days to avoid timing out. Follow the current portal instructions and keep your application number.
3. Gather the requested records. Tenants should prepare identification, proof of housing and the housing crisis, and income verification when requested. Landlords should prepare ownership and tenancy records, the requested W-9, identity and payment information, and agent authorization where applicable. The agency may request more documents.
4. Respond to follow-up. Track status through the official portal. Read requests and deadlines carefully and contact the assigned agency about missing information or case status. Submit sensitive identity and payment documents through authorized channels.
5. Keep the decision and payment records. Check the award and payment status before reconciling the rental ledger. An application in progress is not an approved payment.

How Green Ocean can support tenancy documentation

Ask your property manager which tenancy documents, rent records and owner-side coordination are included in your management scope. Green Ocean can coordinate available management records and communications; the administering agency reviews the application and decides eligibility and funding. We cannot promise an award, priority review or faster payment.

Residents can use the Tenants Portal for their Green Ocean tenancy needs. It is separate from the state’s RAFT application portal. Owners can learn about our rental property management services or contact Green Ocean to discuss document coordination.

Common RAFT application questions

Does applying guarantee rental assistance?

No. The administering agency reviews the matched applications and supporting information. Confirm eligibility, eligible costs and any award with that agency.

Must the tenant apply first?

No. The state’s landlord guide says either party can start. Both need to complete the corresponding submissions and follow the portal’s matching and timing instructions.

Where can I get application help?

The official state pages link to regional agencies and Housing Consumer Education Centers. Contact the assigned agency for case-specific questions. Keep notices, requested documents and your application number available.