Heating Help Available for New York Residents

Applications are now being accepted for New York’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), providing financial relief to eligible residents facing rising heating costs as winter approaches.

The state announced the opening of the federally funded program November 2, encouraging homeowners, renters, seniors, and working families to determine whether they qualify.

Eligible households can receive up to $1,086 toward heating expenses, depending on income, household size, heating source, and other qualifying circumstances.

Households heating with oil, kerosene, or propane may receive a base benefit of $990, while those using wood, pellets, or coal may qualify for $700. Assistance is also available for natural gas and electric heating.

A family of four earning up to $82,230 annually may qualify, demonstrating that eligibility extends beyond households receiving public assistance.

Residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits or certain other public benefits may automatically qualify without submitting separate applications.

The regular HEAP application period opened November 2 and is scheduled to close April 16, 2027, or earlier if available funding is exhausted. Officials encourage residents to apply promptly.

Emergency HEAP applications open January 4, 2027, and are also scheduled to close April 16. Emergency benefits assist qualifying households facing heating shutoffs, fuel shortages, or other heating emergencies.

Eligible homeowners may also receive assistance with heating equipment repairs, replacements, and maintenance through additional HEAP programs.

Benefits are generally paid directly to heating suppliers or utility companies rather than applicants.

New York received approximately $356 million in federal HEAP funding for the 2026-27 heating season, part of a $3.63 billion nationwide allocation.

Suffolk County residents can apply online at myBenefits.ny.gov or through the county Department of Social Services. Applications may also be submitted by mail or in person.

Residents age 60 or older or disabled can call 631-853-8326 for assistance. Other applicants can call 631-853-8820.

Additional information, eligibility requirements, and application instructions are available at ny.gov/HEAP.