Governor Kathy Hochul, alongside Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and Rep. Paul Tonko, announced new assistance to help New Yorkers reduce their heating costs this winter. The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is now open for applications, offering up to $996 in support to low- and middle-income households across the state. Eligible residents can apply for HEAP at ny.gov/heat.
“New Yorkers should not have to choose between heating their home or putting food on the table,” said Hochul. “The Home Energy Assistance Program is putting money back in the pockets of New Yorkers, helping them stay warm through the winter while providing essential financial relief.”
HEAP, a federally funded program, provides heating assistance to households with vulnerable family members, such as children under 6, individuals aged 60 and older, or those with permanent disabilities. The program aids both homeowners and renters based on income, household size, and heating systems. For example, a family of four can qualify with a gross monthly income of up to $6,390.
Households may receive one HEAP benefit per season, with applications for Emergency HEAP benefits, available to those at risk of fuel shortages or service disruptions, opening January 2, 2025. Local social service departments accept applications in person, by mail, or online, and older adults needing assistance can reach out to the NY Connects helpline at 1-800-342-9871.
Additional Energy Assistance and Weatherization Programs
HEAP complements several New York State programs aimed at lowering energy costs and improving home efficiency. The EmPower+ program, run by NYSERDA, provides free energy assessments and funds for upgrades such as insulation, heat pumps, and electrical wiring for qualifying HEAP recipients. The Weatherization Assistance Program, overseen by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), offers insulation, lighting, and structural improvements to reduce long-term energy use.
“These programs highlight New York’s dedication to keeping families safe and warm,” said HCR Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas, noting that weatherization improvements can significantly reduce utility bills.
In addition, HEAP’s Heating Equipment Repair or Replacement program provides up to $4,000 for repairs or $8,000 for replacements to ensure heating safety. Eligible households may also apply for HEAP’s “Clean and Tune” benefit, which provides up to $500 for services like chimney cleaning, repairs, and carbon monoxide detector installation.
The Energy Affordability Program (EAP) offers monthly discounts on utility bills to around 2.7 million households, with oversight from the New York Public Service Commission (PSC). “HEAP and EAP ensure that low-income families can manage their energy costs during the cold winter months,” said PSC Chair Rory M. Christian.
Support for Older Adults and Working Families
HEAP is especially critical for older adults and low-income families. New York’s Chief Disability Officer Kimberly Hill Ridley and Office for the Aging Director Greg Olsen emphasized the program’s role in helping New Yorkers live safely and independently at home.
“HEAP is a lifeline for many working families and seniors on a fixed income,” said Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn. The agency issued nearly 1.8 million HEAP benefits last winter, putting over $397 million back into New Yorkers’ hands.
As the colder months approach, Sen. Gillibrand, Rep. Tonko, and other advocates encourage eligible households to apply. “HEAP offers a lifeline,” Tonko noted, calling it essential for ensuring households can afford heat while meeting other basic needs.
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