Governor Kathy Hochul announced funding is available to help low- and moderate-income households and older adults reduce their energy costs and keep their homes warm during the cold winter months. Applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP, which can provide up to $996 in support to eligible households, are now open to New Yorkers. More than 1.7 million HEAP benefits were provided last winter, returning more than $397 million back into the pockets of families statewide.

16,501 Chautauqua County residents and 9,484 Cattaraugus County residents received HEAP benefits in 2023-24

“New Yorkers shouldn’t have to choose between heating their homes or putting food on the table, and as the weather gets colder, we’re offering critical financial assistance to protect vulnerable families in New York.” said Hochul. “The Home Energy Assistance Program puts money back in New Yorkers’ pockets; helping homes stay warm throughout the winter and providing much-needed financial assistance. “I urge all eligible New Yorkers to apply today.”

Through HEAP, a federally funded program, New Yorkers who care for vulnerable family members, including those under age 6, individuals age 60 and older, or residents with permanent disabilities, are eligible to receive up to $996 in heating assistance. HEAP benefits are also available to eligible homeowners and renters, depending on income levels, household size, and functioning heating systems. A family of four can have a maximum monthly gross income of $6,390 or annual gross income of $76,681 and still qualify for assistance; This represents a significant increase over last year’s maximum monthly gross income of $5,838 and annual gross income. $70,059.

Eligible households may receive one HEAP benefit per season and may also be eligible for up to two Emergency HEAP benefits if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel or losing electric service. While applications for HEAP benefits are now being accepted, 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 social services departments and can be submitted by mail or in person. To apply in person in Chautauqua County, call 716-661-8103; A paper application may be mailed to you, or you may request a phone interview. In Dunkirk, call 716-363-3544.

Additionally, older adults who need assistance with HEAP applications can contact their local office on aging or call the NY Connects hotline at 1-800-342-9871.

said Barbara C. Guinn, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. “HEAP provides essential financial assistance to help hundreds of thousands of low- and moderate-income households in New York pay their energy bills this winter. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for his continued support of this vital economic relief program. HEAP is a lifeline for low-income working families and older adults on fixed incomes, while also providing financial support to ensure those in emergency situations can keep the heat on and their homes warm during the cold winter months. “I encourage all eligible households to apply for this assistance.”

Greg Olsen, Director of the New York State Office on Aging, said: “The Home Energy Assistance Program underscores New York’s commitment to helping those in need, especially older adults on fixed incomes. I encourage older adults who are eligible to apply and need assistance with their HEAP applications to contact their local office on aging or call the NY Connects hotline at 1-800-342-9871. Additionally, you may be eligible for more financial benefits through programs such as the Medicare Savings Program and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.”