HEAP opens for season with up to $1,086 available for eligible households
Press Release, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the State is now accepting applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), helping eligible New Yorkers save on the cost of heating their homes this winter amid rising energy costs.
The program could provide up to $1,086 this winter to help low- and middle-income households and older adults, depending on how they heat their home.
“No New Yorker should have to choose between heating their homes this winter and keeping food on the table,” Governor Hochul said. “As President Trump’s war in Iran drives up energy prices across the country, programs like the Home Energy Assistance Program will deliver relief to New Yorkers who need it most.”
Households that do not automatically receive assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) can begin applying today, Monday, November 2.
Applications for assistance are accepted at local departments of social services and can be submitted online, through the mail or in person. New Yorkers can visit ny.gov/HEAP to learn more and apply. 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.
Editor’s Note: In Orleans County, people can inquire about HEAP at the Department of Social Services, 14016 Route 31 West, Albion, NY, 14411. The phone number is 585-589-3182. The office is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The benefit amounts vary based on income, household size, heating source, and if the household includes a vulnerable member. A family of four can have a gross monthly income up to $6,852, or an annual gross income of up to $82,230, and still qualify for assistance.
In response to the rising cost of heating oil and kerosene stemming from President Trump’s war in Iran, New York State has increased base HEAP benefit amounts for recipients who have their heating fuel delivered to enable them to purchase a minimum delivery of fuel. The benefit amount for those who heat with oil, kerosene, or propane has been increased by $90, to $990, and the amount for those who heat with wood, pellets, and coal increased by $65 to $700.
Eligible households can receive one Regular HEAP benefit per season and could also be eligible for an Emergency HEAP benefit if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel or having their utility services shut off. Applications for the additional emergency benefits will be accepted beginning January 4, 2027.
HEAP benefits are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible low- and middle-income households in need of assistance are encouraged to apply for HEAP benefits as soon as possible.
Beyond helping to defray energy costs, HEAP will also support New Yorkers whose equipment is in need of cleaning and/or repairs. Eligible homeowners can also now apply to have their primary heating equipment inspected and cleaned through the HEAP Heating Equipment Clean and Tune benefit.
Homeowners with inoperable heating equipment can also apply to have their heating equipment repaired or replaced through HEAP’s Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement program. Applicants for these benefits should contact their local department of social services for more information.
