Governor Hochul Announces New Yorkers Can Now Apply for Home Heating Assistance

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the State is now accepting applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), helping eligible New Yorkers save on the cost of heating their homes this winter amid rising energy costs. The program could provide up to $1,086 this winter to help low- and middle-income households and older adults, depending on how they heat their home.

"No New Yorker should have to choose between heating their homes this winter and keeping food on the table," Governor Hochul said. "As President Trump's war in Iran drives up energy prices across the country, programs like the Home Energy Assistance Program will deliver relief to New Yorkers who need it most."

New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, "Governor Hochul has made energy affordability a top priority of her administration, taking multiple steps to lower energy costs for New Yorkers, and HEAP is an important part of those efforts. HEAP is a lifeline for tens of thousands of households across New York State confronted with rising energy prices. Thanks to Governor Hochul, HEAP benefit amounts were increased for New Yorkers who have their heating fuel delivered to their homes, in recognition of significantly higher costs for heating oil and kerosene."

Households that do not automatically receive assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) can begin applying today, Monday, November 2.

Applications for assistance are accepted at local departments of social services and can be submitted online, through the mail or in person. New Yorkers can visit ny.gov/HEAP to learn more and apply. Additionally, older adults needing assistance with HEAP applications can contact their local office for the aging or contact the NY Connects helpline at 1-800-342-9871.

The benefit amounts vary based on income, household size, heating source, and if the household includes a vulnerable member. A family of four can have a gross monthly income up to $6,852, or an annual gross income of up to $82,230, and still qualify for assistance.

In response to the rising cost of heating oil and kerosene stemming from President Trump's war in Iran, New York State has increased base HEAP benefit amounts for recipients who have their heating fuel delivered to enable them to purchase a minimum delivery of fuel. The benefit amount for those who heat with oil, kerosene, or propane has been increased by $90, to $990, and the amount for those who heat with wood, pellets, and coal increased by $65 to $700.

Eligible households can receive one Regular HEAP benefit per season and could also be eligible for an Emergency HEAP benefit if they are in danger of running out of heating fuel or having their utility services shut off. Applications for the additional emergency benefits will be accepted beginning January 4, 2027.

HEAP benefits are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible low- and middle-income households in need of assistance are encouraged to apply for HEAP benefits as soon as possible.

Beyond helping to defray energy costs, HEAP will also support New Yorkers whose equipment is in need of cleaning and/or repairs. Eligible homeowners can also now apply to have their primary heating equipment inspected and cleaned through the HEAP Heating Equipment Clean and Tune benefit. Homeowners with inoperable heating equipment can also apply to have their heating equipment repaired or replaced through HEAP's Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement program. Applicants for these benefits should contact their local department of social services for more information.

Senator Charles Schumer said, "Every New York family deserves a safe, affordable home with heating to keep themselves and their children warm during the winter. I have always been a relentless advocate to boost funding for the HEAP program so residents across every corner of the Empire State can access federal help to manage challenging heating costs. I am proud to have fought to deliver heating assistance for New Yorkers, and thank Governor Hochul for advocating for the resources vulnerable New Yorkers need to make ends meet."

Representative Joe Morelle said, "As families across our community continue to struggle with rising costs, no one should have to choose between heating their home and putting food on the table or paying for other basic necessities. HEAP is a critical lifeline for seniors, families, and hardworking New Yorkers who are already stretching their budgets to make ends meet. I'm grateful to Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to making this assistance available, and I'll keep fighting in Washington to protect and strengthen the federal funding that makes this program possible."

State Senator Lea Webb said, "Concerns about high utility bills are the most common constituent outreach we receive in my office. No one should be forced to choose between food and a comfortably heated home, yet too many of our residents are faced with this choice every day. One of the most essential supports is the Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP. This important program provides critical monetary support to our most vulnerable residents, such as low- and middle-income households and older adults. I encourage all those who are struggling to reach out to their local Department of Social Services and see if they qualify."

Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, "I'd like to thank Commissioner Guinn for officially opening this year's HEAP application process in Johnson City. We want to make sure that the community is aware that utility assistance programs like HEAP are available. Given the number of people who need help paying their utility bills, I want to urge everyone to check on their eligibility as soon as possible before the funds are exhausted."

Broome County Department of Social Services Commissioner Nancy J. Williams said, "As we enter the colder months, the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) remains one of the most critical supports our department provides to Broome County residents. We strongly encourage eligible households to apply early. Our staff is prepared to assist residents through the application process, answer questions, and connect families to additional resources if needed. No one in Broome County should face winter without reliable heat, and HEAP is one of the most effective ways we help ensure that. During the most recent HEAP season, Broome County successfully processed approximately 6,000 HEAP applications and completed nearly 9,000 HEAP-related transactions. This reflects the county's continued commitment to ensuring residents receive timely assistance with their home energy needs."

Broome County Office for Aging Director Mary Whitcombe-Turbush said, "Broome County Office for Aging and Johnson City Senior Center are honored to host a press conference regarding the opening of the HEAP Program in New York State. For many years, HEAP has been an incredibly valuable program to older adults and people with disabilities. This year, with higher heating costs expected, HEAP will represent more than value, it will represent crucial support to older adults and people with disabilities."