ALBANY - The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance announced that eligible low-income New Yorkers who are in danger of having their heat shut off or running out of fuel, can now apply for emergency Home Energy Assistance Program benefits.
HEAP is a federally-funded program to help eligible households in meeting their home energy needs. Eligible households can receive one regular HEAP benefit per season, but may also be eligible for a one-time emergency HEAP benefit if they are in danger of running out of fuel or having their heat or heat-related utility service shut off.
Eligibility for emergency HEAP benefits is based on income, available resources, and the type of emergency. For example, a family of four can have a household income of $49,333 a year and may still qualify for a HEAP benefit.
A complete list of where to apply locally can be found at otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/HEAP-contacts.pdf. More information can also be found by calling the New York State HEAP Hotline at 1-800-342-3009.
Fact Box
Emergency HEAP Benefit Amounts for 2012-13
Heat Related Domestic (electric service required to operate heating equipment) $160
Natural Gas Heat Only $400
Natural Gas Combined with Heat Related Domestic $560
Electric Heat Combined with Heat Related Domestic $560
Non-utility heating fuel (oil, kerosene, and propane) $600
Non-utility heating fuel (wood, pellets, coal, corn, etc.) $500