“No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and paying their heating bill,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “This critical program helps seniors and hard-working New Yorkers cover the high cost of heat during the cold winter months. I encourage those who are eligible to apply for this support and to stay warm and stay safe.”
Eligible households can receive a one-time benefit of up to $626, depending on income, household size and heating source. A family of four can have a household income of up to $53,076 annually, or $4,423 a month, and still qualify for help.
Last winter, more than 1.4 million households received assistance from the federally-funded program, including 143,635 in Western New York.
Anyone living outside of New York City can apply for a regular Home Energy Assistance benefit online at myBenefits.ny.gov/.
The program is overseen by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, but applications are accepted at local departments of social services.
Additionally, households may also qualify for an emergency benefit if they are at risk of getting their heat shut off or running out of fuel. Applications for emergency benefits will be accepted beginning Tuesday, January 3, 2017. Anyone in need of emergency assistance should contact their local department of social services.
Congresswoman Louise Slaughter said, “This federal funding is critical for tens of thousands of families in our region as we prepare for another challenging winter. That’s why I’ve routinely fought to fund this important program. I encourage all eligible Western New Yorkers to apply for this support so they can ensure their homes are heated this winter.”
Congressman Brian Higgins said, “Winter weather is around the corner and no one in Western New York should be left in the cold. Federal HEAP funds help to fill the gap for struggling families and seniors on a fixed income.”
Congressman John Katko said, “The Home Energy Assistance Program is a vital aid to tens of thousands of Central New York families. I’m glad this federal funding is in place to help the elderly, as well as low and moderate-income households deal with the high cost of heating homes during our rough winters.”
More information about the Home Energy Assistance Program is available here.
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