Governor Kathy Hochul announced that funding is available to help low- and middle-income households and older adults lower their energy costs and keep their homes warm during cold winter months. Applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP, which can provide up to $996 to eligible households, are currently open to New Yorkers. More than 1.7 million HEAP benefits were issued last winter, putting more than $397 million dollars back in the pockets of families across the state.
“New Yorkers should not have to choose between heating their home or putting food on the table, and we’re offering critical financial assistance to protect vulnerable New York households as the weather gets colder,” Governor Hochul said. “The Home Energy Assistance Program puts money back in the pockets of New Yorkers — helping households stay warm through the winter and providing much-needed financial relief. I urge all eligible New Yorkers to apply today.”
Through HEAP, a federally funded program, New Yorkers caring for vulnerable family members including those who are under the age of 6, individuals aged 60 and above or residents who are permanently disabled, are eligible to receive up to $996 in heating assistance. HEAP benefits are also available to eligible homeowners and renters depending on their income levels, household size and operative heating systems. A family of four may have a maximum gross monthly income of $6,390, or an annual gross income of $76,681, and still qualify for benefits, marking a significant increase from last year’s maximum of a monthly gross income of $5,838, and an annual gross income of $70,059.
Eligible households can receive one HEAP benefit per season and could also be eligible for up to two Emergency HEAP benefits if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel or having their utility service shut off. Applications for HEAP benefits are now being accepted, while applications for Emergency HEAP benefits will open on January 2, 2025.
Eligible New Yorkers can apply at ny.gov/heat. Applications for assistance are also accepted at local departments of social services and can be submitted through the mail or in person. Additionally, older adults needing assistance with HEAP applications can contact their local office for the aging or contact the NY Connects helpline at 1-800-342-9871.
