About 2.5 million more New York households are eligible for monthly discounts on their utility bills as the state launches a new push to get residents enrolled in its Energy Affordability Program.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the statewide enrollment drive Tuesday, saying up to half of all households in New York are now eligible for the program. Nearly 1 million households are already enrolled.
The program provides monthly utility bill discounts based on household income, potentially saving families hundreds of dollars per year.
Some households are automatically enrolled based on participation in the Home Energy Assistance Program or public assistance. Those enrolled in several other programs, including SNAP, Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income, may also qualify but must apply.
Eligibility was expanded in January to include households below the state median income, or below the area median income in New York City, Westchester and Nassau counties.
The state Department of Public Service will promote enrollment through digital advertising, direct mail, emails and text messages. State agencies, utilities and community organizations will also help connect eligible households with the program.
Click here to check your eligibility or apply.
The announcement comes days before the state begins sending out a separate round of energy rebate checks. Hochul said $1 billion in rebates will go to 8.2 million eligible households beginning Sept. 21, with payments continuing over the following months.
MORE: Millions of New Yorkers to receive energy rebate checks up to $200