Helpful programs for seniors to save money

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

HEAP can help you save on electricity, propane, natural gas, wood, oil, kerosene, coal and other heating fuel.

Benefits:

Cash grants will be made available to those who need help paying their heating bills based on income, the home’s primary fuel source and the number and ages of household members
HEAP will also allocate up to $6,000 to help low-income homeowners repair or replace furnaces, boilers or other direct heating equipment

Eligibility:

Low-income homeowners and those who are over 60 years old and pay their own heat may be eligible
To find out if you qualify, call the NYS HEAP hotline at 1-800-342-3009 or the Rockland County Office for the Aging at 845-364-2110 or visit their website at www.co.rockland.ny.us/Age/
HEAP will begin accepting applications starting Nov. 16 and the money is given out on a first-come, first-served basis.

Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC)

EPIC can cut the cost of prescription drugs so they are more affordable for seniors.

Benefits and changes:

Starting in 2012, the EPIC fee and deductible plans will be replaced by one level of coverage for all participants
EPIC will provide assistance with prescription drugs only during the coverage gap and only for drugs on participants’ Part D plan

Eligibility:

To be eligible you must be a New York State resident older than 65 and have an annual income of under $35,000 (single) or $50,000 (married)
Must be a member of Medicare Part D plan by Dec. 31, 2011. Open enrollment for Medicare Part D ends Dec. 7, 2011
To find out if you’re eligible for this program or to get more information, call the NYS EPIC helpline 1-800-332-3742, the NYS Senior hotline 1-800-342-9871 or visit the NYS Department of Health website at www.health.state.ny.us
For more information on Medicare Part D go to www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-633-4227