Rochester and Western New York residents struggling with heating costs can begin applying for financial assistance Nov. 2 through New York’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Friday that the program will reopen for the winter, with increased benefits for households that rely on heating oil, propane and other delivered fuels.

Last winter, 84,288 households in the Finger Lakes region and 132,462 in Western New York received HEAP benefits, according to the governor’s office. Statewide, more than 1.5 million benefits were issued.

Many eligible households will receive assistance automatically because they are enrolled in programs such as SNAP or public assistance. Others can apply beginning Nov. 2.

A family of four can qualify with a gross annual income of up to $82,230, or $6,852 per month. Benefit amounts vary based on household income, size, heating source and other factors.

The state has increased assistance for households using delivered fuels because of rising heating costs. Benefits for those heating with oil, kerosene or propane have increased by $90 to $990, while assistance for wood, pellets and coal has risen by $65 to $700.

BACKGROUND: 2.5 million New York households eligible for utility bill discounts

Households that pay directly for heat may also qualify for additional assistance based on income or whether they include young children, older adults or people with permanent disabilities.

“As the weather gets colder, my administration is ensuring New Yorkers can utilize the Home Energy Assistance Program to help heat their homes and address rising costs,” Hochul said.

Eligible households can receive one regular HEAP benefit per heating season. Emergency benefits for those at risk of running out of heating fuel or having their utilities shut off will become available Jan. 4, 2027.

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Applications can be submitted online, by mail or in person through local departments of social services.

HOW TO APPLY

Visit ny.gov/HEAP for eligibility information and applications beginning Nov. 2. Older adults who need assistance can contact their local office for the aging or call NY Connects at 1-800-342-9871.