In the state of New York, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is called the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), and it’s a program that provides energy assistance to low-income renters and homeowners. The eligibility of the HEAP program is based on income, household size, the primary heating source, and whether household members are under 6 years old, over 60 years old, or permanently disabled.
Other eligibility factors for the LIHEAP/HEAP program in New York also contemplate that the gross monthly income is equal to or less than the current income guidelines for the size of your household. In addition, those people who receive the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone) could be eligible. Proof of residence, citizenship, or legal immigrant evidence will be required as well.
The maximum in LIHEAP/HEAP benefits you could claim in New York
Between October 2022 and October 2023, New York’s HEAP program has a total budget of $373 million to provide heating during the cold months and cooling during the hot months to qualifying New York households. Homeowners and renters who meet the requirements can apply for HEAP grants, which can amount up to a maximum of $976 depending on household income and what energy they use to heat or cool the house.
A family of four can have a maximum gross monthly income of $5,485 or an annual gross income of $65,829 and still qualify for benefits, an increase from the previous year’s threshold due to the higher heating cost predicted for this winter.
How to apply for the LIHEAP/HEAP assistance in New York
The New York City residents could apply online, by accessing the official website access.nyc.gov. Those that live outside the city, could do in the other website myBenefits.ny.gov. The application could also be done in person in the local HEAP offices. Discover which one is closer to your residence place in this site.
If you prefer to make the application by paper, you can download the printable version here (or request it on your HEAP office) to request a copy. Then, you can drop it in your local HEAP office. Check the full list of requirements applicants must fulfill in order to be approved to receive the HEAP benefits here.
Please consult the HEAP Local District Contact or the OTDA Hotline at 1-800-342-3009 for any questions.
The WAP program in New York: Another assistance you can request
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a parallel initiative that extends its support to qualifying participants by offering services geared towards enhancing energy efficiency, ultimately leading to reduced expenditures on heating and cooling.
Energy efficiency is a main factor in the cost of utility bills; the better sealed a home is, the less fuel a household uses. Weatherization includes insulation, caulking and duct sealing. Discover how to qualify for WAP assistance here.