Please Register For HEAP Utility Payment Assistance

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), a federally funded incentive that assists low-income seniors and families in paying their heating bills, is accepting applications. I urge all eligible New Yorkers to apply for this program.

HEAP is administered through the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and managed locally by county departments of social services. Applications are taken at all local departments of social services. For information on where to apply, call 1-800-342-3009.

To help low-income families, HEAP provides grants ranging from $165 to $440 for heating bills. The amount depends on household incomes, living arrangements, heating expenses, family members and type of heat. Homeowners and renters may be eligible for assistance.

HEAP monthly income eligibility requirements are:

Despite the mild temperatures we have been experiencing thus far, we all know that harsh weather can strike at any moment here in the Northeast. HEAP is a great way to protect low-income families and seniors from the freezing temperatures that will occur during the next couple of months. I encourage all those eligible to apply for HEAP assistance.

For HEAP application information, call toll-free (800) 342-3009 or contact your local social services office. Additional information is on the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website at www.otda.state.ny.us/otda/heap/default.htm.