Home Energy Assistance Program
The federally funded Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) assists income-eligible families in paying their energy bills. HEAP payments vary depending on household income, household composition and heating fuel costs in relation to income. If you have questions about HEAP and your eligibility, contact your local Department of Social Services or call the HEAP hotline at
1-800-342-3009.
The final decision about your eligibility is made by your local Department of Social Services.
How to Apply for Benefits
- If you are 59 or under and applying for HEAP benefits for the first time, call your local Department of Social Services to set up an interview.
- If you are 60 or over, you can call your local Office for the Aging for an application, or call the NYS Office for the Aging hotline at 1-800-342-9871.
- If you cannot apply in person, you may send a friend or relative. This person will need to show a note from you giving them your permission to apply for you. This person must also bring all of the necessary documents to apply (see "What to Bring When You Apply" below).
What to Bring When You Apply:
You will need to bring a copy of the following items when you apply:
- A current rent, lease or mortgage receipt
- A current utility bill, or your landlord's statement that heat and utilities are included in your rent
- Proof of total monthly income for all members of your household for the month in which you apply. Please bring all that you have of the following:
- Pay stubs for the four previous weeks
- Unemployment Insurance Benefits book
- Bankbook or statements
- Copies of Social Security and pension checks
- Direct deposit statements
- Business records, if you are self-employed
- For each person in the household, one of the following: birth or marriage certificates, school or baptismal records, Social Security cards or driver's licenses.
If You Have an Energy Emergency
Households eligible for HEAP and that have an energy-related emergency—such as a shut-off of gas and/or electricity service, a 72-hour notice of termination, or a final termination notice—may apply for emergency benefits at their local Department of Social Services. Emergency benefits are in addition to regular HEAP benefits. As a HEAP recipient, you may also qualify for weatherization services and furnace replacement. Contact your local Community Action Agency.
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