NEW YORK STATE (WENY) — With the increase in home heating prices, New York is expanding its HEAP benefit program to more residents.
People that are enrolled in other assistance programs like SNAP will receive HEAP funds automatically. For New Yorkers who aren’t, signups for the program open on November 2nd. Eligibility for a benefit is determined on monthly income, household size, and other factors explained on the HEAP website.
Low- and middle-income New Yorkers can apply for a benefit, with varying awards depending on what they heat their home with. For people living in government subsidized housing or those living in apartments where heating costs are included in their rent, award amounts are $21 and $45-$50 respectively. For residents that pay for their own heating costs, those that use oil, kerosene, or propane are eligible for $990, while people that use wood, wood pellets, coal, or corn are eligible for $700, and people that use electricity or natural gas are eligible for $400.
You can learn more and apply for HEAP at ny.gov/HEAP.