Applications for NY heating assistance open November 1st
WARREN COUNTY, NY -- With heating costs expected to dramatically increase this winter, Warren County Department of Social Services is urging residents who may qualify for New York’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) to make their applications for aid as soon as possible.
Prices of some types of fuels are forecast to rise as much as 30 percent this winter, on top of increases already seen in recent winters. That may make it tougher for many to keep up with heating bills this winter.
The application period for HEAP assistance in New York opens as of November 1. Applications can be made online here, or Warren County Department of Social Services can help with applications at 518-761-6338.
“HEAP is a valuable program to make sure our residents stay warm during winter and many people may not be aware that they qualify. Please visit the New York State HEAP website or call us to determine if you meet income eligibility guidelines to get help for your heating costs,” explained Chris Hanchett, Warren County Department of Social Services Commissioner.
If you are eligible, you may receive one regular HEAP benefit per program year.
Guidelines for the 2022-2023 HEAP season are based on household size and maximum monthly income, and are as follows: one-person household — $2,852; two — $3,730; three — $4,608; four — $5,485; five — $6,363; six — $7,241; seven — $7,405; eight — $7,570; nine — $7,734; 10 — $7,899; 11 — $8,064; 12 — $8,228; 13 — $8,778.
For households over 13, add $590 to the maximum monthly income.
Applications can be made by those who heat with electricity; natural gas; oil; coal; propane; wood or wood pellets; kerosene or corn.
Those who would like to request that an application be mailed to them can go online to www.mybenefits.com. Applicants should apply prior to their fuel levels getting low or running out, in an effort to avoid extra delivery charges or emergency deliveries from fuel vendors.
In addition to helping with fuel costs, HEAP can also provide financial assistance for heating system repairs and cleaning for those who qualify. For more information, go to otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/.
###