You Can Save Up To $1,000 On Your Heating Bill With This Convenient Program
We’ve already made it to December (how?!) and with that comes the winter weather bringing snow and frigid temps to NYC. In other words, it’s time for us to fork all our money over to Con Edison to heat our homes (especially considering NYC is going to be colder than Alaska for much of this week). Though, thankfully, New York has a program that makes it a bit cheaper to keep your heat on through the winter.
NY’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps low income residents pay the cost of heating their homes, and the application is now open for the season. Here’s what you need to know:
How does HEAP work?
The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a federally funded program that helps low and middle-income households as well as individuals aged 60 and above pay the cost of heating their homes. Eligible residents may receive one regular HEAP benefit per season.
You could also be eligible for an emergency HEAP benefit if you’re in impending danger of running out of fuel or having your service shut off.
Who is eligible to receive HEAP in NYC?
You may be eligible to receive HEAP according to the following guidelines:
- You and the members of your household are U.S. citizens, U.S. non-citizen nationals, or qualified non-citizens; and
- You provide a valid Social Security number for each household member; and
- You receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, Temporary Assistance, or Supplemental Security Income; or
- Your monthly household income is at or below the HEAP income guidelines
Keep in mind that you may be eligible for HEAP even if you own your home, pay for heat as part of your rent, or have money in the bank, stocks, bonds or other resources.
Are there any HEAP monthly income limits?
Yes, there are HEAP monthly income limits. Your total household gross monthly income for your household size must be at or below the guidelines in the following table:
Are HEAP benefits available year-round?
No, HEAP benefits are not available year-round. The eligible period typically begins in early to mid-November and continues into the winter until program funding runs out.
Does it matter what my home’s heating source is?
HEAP may be of assistance to you if you heat your home with any of the following methods:
- Electricity
- Natural Gas
- Oil
- Coal
- Propane
- Wood/Wood Pellets
- Kerosene
- Corn
How much can I receive in HEAP benefits?
Eligible households can receive up to nearly $1,000.
How many people benefit from HEAP?
Last winter more than 1.7 million HEAP benefits were issued, putting more than $397 million dollars back in the pockets of families across New York State.
How can I apply for HEAP?
You can apply for HEAP benefits in the following ways:
Online:
In person:
Both New York City residents and non-New York City residents can apply in person at their HEAP Local District Contact.
By mail:
- New York City residents: print and mail the complete application to: HRA/HEAP, PO Box 1401, Church Street Station, New York, NY 10008
- Non-New York City residents: print and mail the completed HEAP application to your HEAP Local District Contact
Governor Kathy Hochul stated:
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. 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.
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