As the weather outside grows colder, homeowners will begin to increase their thermostats. Home heating costs place an increased burden on homeowner’s budgets, especially seniors and lower income families. However, there are ways residents throughout our community can receive vital financial assistance to help alleviate an increase in home heating costs this winter.
Financial help is available to low-income families and senior citizens through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). Funded by the federal government, HEAP is administered by the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and managed by local county social service departments. Since its inception over twenty years ago, HEAP has helped save New Yorker’s millions in home heating costs.
HEAP funding levels for qualifying households during the 2006-07 heating season range from $40 to $440. It is important to note that the amount of financial assistance provided depends on income, heating expenses, number of family members that reside in the household, and the type of heat used. The amount of aid individuals can receive will also be affected by whether they pay directly for heat or make payments through their rent.
In New York, HEAP awards the highest benefits to households with the lowest income and the highest energy cost in relation to income. Higher benefits may also be granted to low-income households with vulnerable individuals such as those where children less than 6 years of age, 60 or older or disabled persons reside.
Due to limited funding for the program, I urge all qualifying residents to apply for HEAP benefits as soon as possible in order to see significant savings in their winter utility bills.
Applications for HEAP aid can be obtained at your local county Department of Social Services or by calling NYS HEAP hotline at 1-800-342-3009. Additional information on the HEAP program can also be obtained by visiting www.otda.state.ny.us.