Step-by-Step Guide

How to Claim Your Rebates

Follow this complete guide to successfully claim Mass Save rebates for heat pumps, insulation, and other energy upgrades.

7
Steps Total
6-12
Weeks Start to Finish
90
Days to Submit
$16K+
Maximum Rebates

Complete Claiming Process

1

Schedule Your Free Home Energy Assessment

Required

This is the essential first step for most rebates. A certified energy specialist will evaluate your home and provide personalized recommendations.

What to do:

  • Call 1-866-527-7283 or schedule online at masssave.com
  • Have your utility account number ready
  • Assessment takes 2-3 hours
  • You'll receive free products (LED bulbs, power strips, etc.) during the visit
Timeline: 2-4 weeks to schedule
Tip: Spring and fall are busiest seasons - book early!
2

Review Your Assessment Report

Required

After your assessment, you'll receive a detailed report outlining recommended upgrades and available rebates.

What to do:

  • Report shows prioritized improvements by savings potential
  • Each recommendation includes estimated rebate amounts
  • Shows which improvements need pre-approval
  • Includes contractor referrals for each project type
Timeline: Same day or within 1 week
Tip: Keep this report - you'll reference it throughout the process.
3

Get Quotes from Approved Contractors

Required

For major work like heat pumps or insulation, get 2-3 quotes from Mass Save participating contractors.

What to do:

  • Use the Mass Save contractor finder or ask for recommendations
  • Contractors must be registered with Mass Save for rebates to apply
  • Get itemized quotes showing equipment models and efficiency ratings
  • Ask about instant rebates vs. mail-in rebates
Timeline: 1-2 weeks
Tip: Confirm the contractor will handle rebate paperwork before signing.
4

Submit Pre-Approval Application (If Required)

If Applicable

Some rebates require approval before work begins. This is mandatory for rebates over $10,000.

What to do:

  • Heat pump rebates over $10,000 require pre-approval
  • Submit through Mass Save online portal or through your contractor
  • Include equipment specifications and contractor quote
  • Wait for approval confirmation before scheduling installation
Timeline: 1-3 weeks for approval
Tip: Your contractor can often submit pre-approval on your behalf.
5

Complete the Installation

Required

Schedule your project with the approved contractor. Keep all documentation for rebate submission.

What to do:

  • Verify equipment matches what was pre-approved (if applicable)
  • Get itemized invoice with equipment model numbers
  • Request equipment specification sheets
  • Keep manufacturer warranty documentation
Timeline: Varies by project
Tip: Take photos of equipment labels showing model numbers.
6

Submit Rebate Application

Required

Apply for your rebate within 90 days of installation completion.

What to do:

  • Submit online at masssave.com or by mail
  • Include: completed application, itemized invoice, equipment specs
  • Some contractors offer instant rebates applied to your bill
  • Track your application status online
Timeline: 30 minutes to complete
Tip: Double-check efficiency ratings match rebate requirements before submitting.
7

Receive Your Rebate

Required

Once approved, your rebate will be processed and sent to you.

What to do:

  • Rebate checks typically arrive within 6-8 weeks
  • Some rebates are applied directly to your utility bill
  • You'll receive email confirmation when check is mailed
  • Contact Mass Save if you haven't received payment after 8 weeks
Timeline: 6-8 weeks after approval
Tip: While waiting, file for federal tax credits on your next tax return.

Required Documents

Have these ready before submitting your rebate application:

Completed Rebate Application

Available on masssave.com or from your contractor

Itemized Invoice

Must show equipment make, model, and cost breakdown

Equipment Specification Sheet

Showing efficiency ratings (SEER2, HSPF2, etc.)

Proof of Purchase

Receipt or credit card statement

Pre-Approval Confirmation

Only for rebates requiring pre-approval

Types of Rebates

Instant Rebates

Discount applied directly to your invoice by the contractor

Pros

  • + No waiting for payment
  • + Less paperwork

Cons

  • - Not all contractors offer this
  • - May have lower amounts

Mail-In Rebates

Submit application after installation and receive a check

Pros

  • + Available from all contractors
  • + Full rebate amounts

Cons

  • - 6-8 week processing time
  • - More paperwork

Bill Credits

Rebate applied as credit to your utility bill

Pros

  • + Automatic processing
  • + Spreads savings over time

Cons

  • - Less common
  • - May take several billing cycles

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't let these errors delay or disqualify your rebate application.

Skipping the Home Energy Assessment

Insulation rebates require an assessment first. You may miss out on 75-100% rebate coverage.

Using a Non-Participating Contractor

Only Mass Save registered contractors qualify. Your rebate claim will be denied.

Installing Before Pre-Approval

For rebates over $10,000, work done before approval isn't covered.

Missing the 90-Day Deadline

Applications submitted after 90 days from installation are not accepted.

Wrong Equipment Efficiency

Equipment must meet minimum efficiency standards. Double-check before purchasing.

Incomplete Documentation

Missing paperwork delays processing. Have all documents ready before submitting.

Helpful Resources

Rebate Applications

Download official forms

Schedule Assessment

Book your free audit

Find Your Utility

ZIP code lookup

Income Eligibility

Check for enhanced rebates

Ready to Claim Your Rebates?

Start with a free home energy assessment - it's the foundation for maximizing your rebate savings.

Schedule Free Assessment Call 1-866-527-7283

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Download our cheat sheet with federal tax credits, stacking rules, and checklist. Plus get expert tips on maximizing your savings.

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