HEAP accepting applications for energy assistance starting Tuesday
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ROCHESTER, N.Y. — New York State on Monday announced that residents who need help paying their heating bills can begin applying for home heating assistance on Tuesday, November 1.
The Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as HEAP, can provide up to $976 this winter to help low- and middle-income households and senior citizens keep their homes warm and help defray high energy costs.
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On Monday Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New Yorkers who need help paying their heating bills can begin applying for home heating assistance on Tuesday, November 1. The Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as HEAP, can provide up to $976 this winter to help low- and middle-income households and senior citizens keep their homes warm and help defray high energy costs.
The program, overseen by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, is federally funded. Eligible households can receive one Regular benefit per season and could also be eligible for an Emergency benefit if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel, or having their utility service shut off. Applications for emergency benefits will be accepted beginning January 3, 2023.
Eligible homeowners and renters may receive up to $976 in heating assistance, depending on their income, household size, how they heat their home, and if the household contains a vulnerable member. A family of four may have a maximum gross monthly income of $5,485, or an annual gross income of $65,829, and still qualify for benefits.
The value of the Regular HEAP benefits has been increased due the higher heating costs forecast for this winter. The benefit was increased 33 percent for households that heat with oil, kerosene, or propane; 21 percent for households that heat with wood, wood pellets, coal, or corn; and 14 percent for households that heat with electricity or natural gas.
Applications for assistance are accepted at local departments of social services in person or by telephone, with funding provided on a first-come, first-served basis.