NYS: It's not too late to apply for heating assistance

Eligible New Yorkers have until April 8 to apply

The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance reminded New Yorkers there is still time to apply for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), which will accept applications for heating assistance through April 8. So far this winter, 1.3 million low- and middle-income households have received help from HEAP to heat their homes.

Lower energy prices and milder-than-usual temperatures have combined to increase HEAP customers' purchasing power, while ensuring there is still funding available for eligible households that have not yet applied.

"Though we are approaching spring and the promise of warmer temperatures, many parts of the state will continue to experience cold days and nights for several more weeks," said Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Samuel D. Roberts. "I encourage anyone who may be eligible to apply for heating assistance before the April 8 deadline."

Eligible households can receive a one-time benefit of up to $625 this winter depending upon income, household size and heating source. A household of four can earn up to $51,792, or $4,316 a month, and still qualify for assistance. Anyone living outside of New York City can apply for a regular HEAP benefit online at myBenefits.ny.gov.

Households may also be eligible for an emergency benefit if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel or having their utility service shut off. Households facing an energy emergency should call their local department of social services for assistance.

HEAP is funded by the federal government and is overseen by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance.

For more information about the Home Energy Assistance Program, go to http://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap. New Yorkers can find contact information for their county department of social services at http://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/HEAP-contacts.pdf.

Last winter, 1.48 million households received benefits through the program. A breakdown of the number of households that received assistance last winter and so far this winter, by county can be found HERE.