Check EAEDC eligibility and how to apply

You must meet certain requirements to get Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled and Children (EAEDC). While you’re thinking about applying, keep these rules in mind.

To receive EAEDC, you must:

  • Live in Massachusetts
  • Be a U.S. citizen or a certain kind of legal noncitizen
  • Meet an income limit

Basic requirements

EAEDC can help you if you are:

Income limits

The income limits are based on living arrangement, which is who you live with or where you live. There are several different living arrangements, each with a different income limit. Use your  gross income to see if you qualify. Gross income is the amount before taxes or other deductions. 

Living arrangementHousehold sizeMonthly income 
You live alone. Or, you live with your spouse or children who don’t get TAFDC or EAEDC. You have shelter costs.

1

2

Each additional household member

$401.00

$521.70

+ $121.00

You live with your spouse who gets TAFDC for your stepchild(ren).

1

2

Each additional household member

$121.00

$241.90

+ $121.00

You live with your spouse who gets EAEDC personally or TAFDC for a young extended family member. You have shelter costs.

1

2

Each additional household member

$267.30

$347.80

+ $80.80

You live in a halfway house or an institution like a psychiatric hospital, licensed nursing home, or residential treatment center.1$72.80
You do not have a place to live or you live in a shelter during the night. You have no shelter costs.

1

2

Each additional household member

$401.00

$521.70

+$121.00

You live in a licensed rest home, also known as a residential care facility.1The facility’s monthly rate plus $72.80.
You live in a therapeutic community center.1$258.80

If you are applying because you are caring for a disabled person, the disabled person’s income cannot be more than $1,500 monthly. 

Deductions

A deduction is the amount of your income that doesn't count. If your income is from a job, deductions are allowed as follows:

  • $200
  • The cost of child care (restrictions apply)

How to apply

Flow chart showing the Cash Benefits Application Process. Submit an application, then interview, then send in verifications, then EBT card, then get cash benefits

You can apply for EAEDC by calling your local DTA office or online.

MassHealth Coverage

Approved for EAEDC? You automatically get MassHealth, too! Click here for more details on MassHealth coverage for cash benefits clients.

Contact   for Check EAEDC eligibility and how to apply

Phone

The DTA Assistance Line is open from 8:15 A.M. to 4:45 P.M.

Fax

DTA Document Processing Center (617) 887-8765

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